During his visit to Kabul on March 12-13, Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister, Bakhtiyor Saidov, discussed a wide range of issues related to bilateral cooperation, focusing on intensifying economic relations. This marked Saidov's first visit to the country as the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, accompanied by other representatives from the Uzbek government and private sector.
Special attention was given to creating favorable conditions for effective interaction between the business communities of the two countries. Saidov emphasized the rich shared history, traditions, and future prospects between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, highlighting numerous collaborative opportunities.
In Kabul, Saidov held meetings and negotiations with officials from Afghanistan's interim government, including the acting Prime Minister, Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund, and other key figures in various ministries. Discussions encompassed topics such as water resource management, agricultural development, and infrastructure projects like the construction of the Kokcha canal in northern Afghanistan.
The Uzbek Foreign Minister reaffirmed his country's commitment to strengthening political and economic ties with Afghanistan, offering technical assistance for projects such as canal construction and modern irrigation systems. Talks also addressed trade, transit issues, and visa facilitation to boost economic cooperation between the two nations.
Additionally, the discussions touched upon the shortage of electricity imported from Uzbekistan, affecting both Afghan citizens and various sectors of the economy. Saidov expressed Uzbekistan's enduring support for Afghanistan, urging to consider it an integral part of Central Asia and the international community.
Moreover, Uzbekistan expressed interest in investing in Afghanistan's cement production, coal mining, and coal-based electricity generation sectors. Recent initiatives such as the reconstruction of the "Hairatan-Mazar-i-Sharif" railway line and the proposal to extend the visa-free period for Afghan businessmen working in the international trade center in Termez demonstrate the growing cooperation between the two countries.
