Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of Afghanistan, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to boosting its export capabilities during a high-level meeting with Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, held at the Charchanar Palace in Kabul.

The discussions focused on strengthening political relations, enhancing economic cooperation, expanding trade and transit frameworks, and encouraging Russian investments in Afghanistan. Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar highlighted the Islamic Emirate’s economic-driven foreign policy, noting that Afghanistan, with its restored security and stability, has become a central hub for regional economic collaboration, trade, and transit. He emphasized that these developments benefit not only Afghanistan but also neighboring and regional countries.

During the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister detailed Afghanistan’s efforts to foster economic growth through strategic measures, such as prohibiting narcotics cultivation and dismantling groups detrimental to the nation’s security and economy. He reiterated Afghanistan’s commitment to playing a key role in the North-South Economic Corridor to bolster regional connectivity and address economic challenges.

Mullah Baradar stated: “We are dedicated to creating opportunities for Afghanistan’s exports to regional and international markets,” emphasizing the importance of strengthened bilateral relations for practical economic advancements.

Nikolai Patrushev expressed Russia’s readiness to elevate its bilateral partnership with Afghanistan, describing the visit as part of a directive from President Vladimir Putin. He announced Russia’s intent to remove the Islamic Emirate from its blacklist shortly, which would facilitate the development of political and economic ties.

The Russian delegation reaffirmed its support for the Afghan-Trans project and emphasized their commitment to fulfilling agreements made at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum. Additionally, Russian investors and state enterprises expressed strong interest in investing in Afghanistan’s mining, transportation, and agricultural sectors.

Both sides agreed to establish a joint intergovernmental commission to oversee and promote collaboration in trade, transit, and investment. Under this framework, specialized committees will be formed to advance targeted initiatives in various sectors. (ILKHA)