Afghan and Belarusian Trade Ministers Meet in Uzbekistan to Discuss Economic Cooperation

Afghan Minister of Industry and Trade Nooruddin Azizi held a bilateral meeting with Belarusian Minister of Industry Andrei Yevgenyevich Kuznetsov in Uzbekistan, focusing on strengthening economic ties between the two nations. The discussions centered on expanding bilateral trade, securing oil supplies, and attracting foreign investment to Afghanistan.

During the talks, Azizi outlined opportunities for Belarusian companies to engage with Afghanistan’s commercial landscape. He specifically encouraged investors from Belarus to direct capital toward the country’s pharmaceutical sector, alongside other industrial areas. The Afghan minister emphasized that enhancing trade relations would contribute to broader economic development and regional market integration.

Kuznetsov and Azizi reviewed existing commercial frameworks and explored mechanisms to facilitate smoother exchanges between their respective markets. A central component of the agenda was Afghanistan’s stated interest in purchasing oil from Belarus, which officials indicated could help diversify the country’s energy procurement channels. Both sides expressed a mutual interest in establishing sustainable partnerships that align with their respective industrial priorities and long-term economic planning.

The meeting took place as part of broader diplomatic engagements in the region, with both ministries signaling openness to further technical discussions. Officials noted that the dialogue reflects ongoing efforts by Afghanistan to expand its international trade network and secure strategic investments in key domestic sectors.