KABUL: Kazakhstan aims to increase its trade volume with Afghanistan to $3 billion, the country’s ambassador in Kabul said during a meeting with Afghan officials.
Gaziz Akbasov, Kazakhstan’s ambassador to Afghanistan, made the remarks in a meeting with Abdul Wasea, chief of staff to the Prime Minister, according to a statement released on Monday by Mullah Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate.
Akbasov said Astana intends to achieve the target by expanding trade and investment in Afghanistan, including in the country’s mining sector. He added that discussions on potential investments have already taken place with Afghanistan’s economic authorities.
The ambassador also announced Kazakhstan’s readiness to invest in key railway projects, including the Turgundi–Herat and Kandahar–Spin Boldak lines, allocating up to $500 million for the initiatives.
He emphasized that Kazakhstan views Afghanistan as an important economic partner, noting that Astana has already authorized the export of oil products and medicines to the country, steps that have contributed to growing bilateral trade.
Welcoming Kazakhstan’s efforts to deepen economic cooperation, Mullah Abdul Wasea said that improved nationwide security has created favorable conditions for investment and commerce. He added that the Afghan government is working toward economic self-sufficiency by using such opportunities.
Trade and economic ties between Afghanistan and Central Asian countries have been steadily expanding in recent years.
Kazakhstan seeks to boost trade with Afghanistan to $3 billion
