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🇦🇫 Afghanistan /Economy & Trade

1,000 acres allocated for special economic zone near Hairatan: Azizi

From Pajhwok Afghan News · (10m ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Afghanistan has allocated 1,000 acres of land near Hairatan port in Balkh province for a special economic zone, aiming to attract Uzbek investment.
  • The announcement was made during a meeting between Afghan Minister of Commerce and Industry Nooruddin Azizi and a delegation from Uzbekistan's Republic of Karakalpakstan.
  • Discussions focused on expanding economic ties, promoting joint investments, and facilitating trade in various sectors, including cotton, coal, fruits, and minerals.

Afghanistan is actively seeking to bolster its economic ties and attract foreign investment, with a particular focus on its northern neighbor, Uzbekistan. The recent allocation of 1,000 acres for a special economic zone near the Hairatan port signifies a strategic move to leverage regional trade routes and foster industrial growth.

Minister of Commerce and Industry Nooruddin Azizi's meeting with the delegation from Uzbekistan's Republic of Karakalpakstan underscores Kabul's commitment to deepening bilateral economic relations. The discussions, which covered a wide array of potential collaborations—from agricultural exports like cotton and dried fruits to mineral processing and tourism—highlight Afghanistan's ambition to diversify its economy and integrate further into regional supply chains.

As many as 1,000 acres of land have been allocated in the Torrahi area near Hairatan port in northern Balkh province for the establishment of a special economic zone, with investment opportunities available for Uzbek investors.

— Nooruddin AziziThe Afghan Minister of Commerce and Industry announced the land allocation for the special economic zone during a meeting with an Uzbek delegation.

The establishment of this economic zone near Hairatan is particularly significant. This strategic location on the border with Uzbekistan offers a gateway for Uzbek investors to access Afghan markets and potentially re-export goods. By creating a favorable investment environment, Afghanistan aims to tap into Uzbekistan's industrial capacity and market access, fostering mutual economic benefit.

From Afghanistan's perspective, such initiatives are crucial for post-conflict reconstruction and sustainable development. While international media might focus on security or political stability, Kabul's focus remains on tangible economic progress. This economic zone represents a concrete step towards creating jobs, generating revenue, and building a more self-sufficient economy, demonstrating a forward-looking approach that prioritizes national economic interests.

trade chambers of the republic would soon be opened in Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.

— Amanbay OrynbayevThe Chairman of the Parliament of the Republic of Karakalpakstan mentioned plans to expand trade infrastructure to facilitate regional commerce.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Pajhwok Afghan News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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