Uzbek President Calls for Stronger Economic and Diplomatic Ties with Afghanistan

Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has called for closer diplomatic and economic cooperation with Afghanistan, emphasizing the strategic importance of bilateral relations. During a high-level meeting in Tashkent, Mirziyoyev urged government officials and citizens to strengthen friendship with their southern neighbor, describing the Afghan people as hardworking and culturally rich. He noted that expanded cooperation would yield mutual economic benefits.

Regional governors attending the meeting outlined specific trade and investment initiatives targeting the Afghan market. Fergana Governor Khayrullo Bozorov stated that his administration is actively preparing investment and export projects for Afghanistan. Andijan Governor Shuhrat Abdurahmonov announced a $1 billion export agreement with Afghanistan, specifying that $600 million in goods and services will be delivered in 2026. Surkhandarya Governor Ulugbek Qosimov highlighted his province’s strategic position along the border, announcing a goal of $1 billion in total exports for the year, with half of that volume directed to Afghanistan.

Officials also reported substantial growth in cross-border commerce. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached $1.678 billion in 2025, marking an increase of $540 million compared to 2024 and $811 million over 2023 levels. The meeting underscored Uzbekistan’s focus on expanding regional connectivity and leveraging Afghanistan as a key market for goods and services.