Afghanistan, China connected via Wakhan road: Minister

The completion of basic construction on the Wakhan road marks a significant milestone, finally connecting Afghanistan to China via a direct land route. For too long, our nation has been geographically isolated from key regional partners, despite land access to other neighbors. This new corridor, facilitated by the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development, promises to unlock new avenues for trade, development, and cooperation.

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Fortunately, the basic work on the Wakhan road has been completed, Afghanistan has been connected to China, and the remaining work is also under way.

Our Chinese partners have demonstrated a commitment to Afghanistan's infrastructure development, completing projects with high quality. The Wakhan road is a testament to this collaboration, and we anticipate further joint efforts in various sectors. The people of Afghanistan welcome this connection and urge China to expand its support, particularly in underserved regions that desperately need development.

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Afghanistan was connected by land to all its neighbouring countries, but China had been the only country without a direct land route to Afghanistan until now.

This development is particularly crucial for Afghanistan's economic future. A direct land link to China, a global economic powerhouse, offers immense potential for increased trade volumes, reduced transportation costs, and greater access to international markets. It diversifies our trade routes and lessens reliance on traditional, often politically fraught, transit corridors.

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The people of Afghanistan welcomed the construction of the Wakhan road and urged China to increase cooperation in implementing infrastructure and development projects in the country, particularly in underserved areas with greater development needs.

While international media may focus on the geopolitical implications, for Afghans, this road represents tangible progress and a step towards greater self-sufficiency and regional integration. It is a symbol of our nation's potential and a practical enabler of growth, offering hope for improved livelihoods and a more prosperous future.

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China had implemented a number of major development and infrastructure projects in Afghanistan with high quality and would continue to carry out various projects in close coordination with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) in the future.