Afghanistan and Russia have discussed ways to expand bilateral trade, promote joint investment and strengthen economic cooperation during a meeting between Afghan business officials and the Russian ambassador in Kabul.

Sayed Karim Hashemi, President of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, held talks with Russian Ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov, focusing on opportunities to deepen economic and commercial ties between the two countries.

During the meeting, Hashemi called for increased Russian participation in Afghanistan’s economic development, highlighting the potential for greater trade, joint investment projects and stronger cooperation between businesses from both countries.

The two sides also discussed Russia’s participation in the upcoming 5th Imam Abu Hanifa Exhibition, which is expected to provide an important platform for Afghan and foreign companies to explore new commercial opportunities and establish business partnerships.

The planned visit of an Afghan trade delegation to Moscow was also discussed during the meeting.

Both sides stressed the importance of such exchanges in expanding direct contacts between Afghan and Russian businesses and identifying new opportunities for cooperation across various economic sectors.

They further reaffirmed their commitment to reducing regulatory, administrative and logistical obstacles that have hindered the expansion of bilateral trade.

Officials emphasized that easing these barriers would help strengthen private-sector partnerships, facilitate investment and encourage greater business-to-business engagement.

The discussions come amid Afghanistan’s efforts to expand its economic and trade relations with regional and international partners. For Kabul, stronger commercial ties with Russia could contribute to increased investment, expanded markets for Afghan products and greater economic connectivity.

Both sides expressed their readiness to continue working toward stronger economic relations and to translate existing areas of cooperation into concrete trade and investment opportunities. (ILKHA)