Afghan and Uzbek companies have signed 18 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) worth more than $150 million at a business networking meeting in Kabul, marking a new step toward expanding trade and investment cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

The agreements cover several sectors, including construction, chemicals, cosmetics, and other industries, and are expected to create new opportunities for joint ventures, investment, and bilateral trade.

The meeting brought together business representatives from both countries, who held bilateral discussions to explore investment opportunities, strengthen commercial ties, and identify areas for joint cooperation.

Mujeeb-ur-Rahman Shirzad, deputy for strategy at the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, highlighted the importance of expanding economic relations with Uzbekistan for both countries.

He said stronger trade ties would contribute to economic growth, attract investment, create employment opportunities, and improve people's living standards.

“Developing trade between the two countries is not merely an economic matter, but also an important means of strengthening mutual trust, friendship, and regional cooperation,” Shirzad said.

Meanwhile, Yarqin Malikov, head of Uzbekistan's Exporters Association, expressed his country's readiness to expand cooperation with Afghanistan in construction, electrical equipment, and the export of Afghan agricultural products.

Malikov said Uzbek businesspeople had identified significant investment opportunities in Afghanistan, with several companies planning to establish joint ventures in the country.

He also highlighted plans to invest in Afghanistan's meat-processing industry, citing lower mutton prices compared with Uzbekistan.

“We intend to process meat in Afghanistan and begin exporting meat products to Uzbekistan and other countries,” he said.

During the meeting, Uzbek business representatives also discussed opportunities to expand commercial activities in Afghanistan and establish direct partnerships with Afghan companies.

Participants emphasized that stronger connections between businesses in the two countries could help increase bilateral trade and facilitate new investment projects.

The meeting was organized to promote direct business-to-business cooperation and strengthen economic relations between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. The 18 agreements are expected to provide a foundation for new commercial partnerships and expanded investment across several sectors. (ILKHA)