Afghanistan and Karakalpakstan Discuss Trade and Agricultural Cooperation

Amanbay Orinbayev, Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, visited Afghanistan to discuss expanding trade, investment, and agricultural cooperation between the two regions.

During the visit, Orinbayev met with Mawlawi Abdul Salam Hanafi, Administrative Deputy of the Prime Minister's Office of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The discussions focused on seeking Uzbekistan's expertise in the technical and agricultural sectors. The two officials also discussed the establishment of a trade entity in Mazar-i-Sharif to strengthen economic ties; however, Bakhtar News reports this as a potential opening, while Pajhwok indicates the joint trade chamber is set for inauguration.

Orinbayev also held a meeting with Nooruddin Azizi, the Minister of Industry and Commerce. Azizi and Orinbayev discussed the processing of raw materials and minerals, as well as the creation of joint investment zones to boost bilateral commerce. During these talks, Azizi proposed the establishment of a Karakalpakstan coordination and communication office within the Termez market to streamline operations.

Furthermore, 2,000 jeribs of land have been allocated at the Hairatan junction for Uzbek investors to develop a special economic zone. To further facilitate the export of Afghan goods, Karakalpakstan plans to utilize its future trade chambers in Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan to provide additional market access.