Afghan, Uzbek Traders Sign 14 Agreements Worth Over $524 Million in Herat

HERAT, Afghanistan -- Traders from Afghanistan's Herat province and Uzbekistan's Andijan province signed 14 memorandums of understanding worth more than $524 million during a trade conference on Tuesday, according to multiple reports.

The agreements, announced by the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI), aim to expand economic cooperation, joint investments and trade in sectors including industry, construction, energy and agriculture. Hasht-e Subh reported the value at over $510 million, while Ariana News, Hurriyat and Pajhwok cited $524 million.

The event was attended by Herat Governor Noor Ahmad Islamjar and Andijan Governor Sherat Rahmonov. ACCI Deputy Faiz Ahmad Khuafi emphasized Herat's strategic role as a trade hub with ports like Islam Qala and Torghundi. Islamjar pledged an upcoming visit to Andijan to further exchanges.

Uzbek traders expressed readiness to invest in Herat, building on recent deals including $1.4 billion in agreements with Uzbekistan over the past six months, per Hurriyat, and 38 pacts worth over $520 million signed in Kabul the previous day, according to Pajhwok.

The governors discussed enhancing bilateral trade and transit through infrastructure development, permanent exhibitions and a joint chamber of commerce, with plans for a joint exhibition in Andijan.