Kazakhstan Deepens Economic and Humanitarian Ties with Afghanistan

Kazakhstan is strengthening its cooperation with Afghanistan following a high-level visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu to Kabul on July 10, as reported by The Astana Times.

Nurtleu met with Afghan officials, including Acting Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar and Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, to discuss expanding collaboration in trade, agriculture, infrastructure and transit.

The two sides signed a memorandum on developing the Central Asia–South Asia railway and agreed to boost bilateral trade to $3 bn. Kazakhstan pledged to increase exports of food, fuel, and industrial goods, while opening new channels for Afghan products such as fruits and beverages.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Astana announced plans to invest in the Turgundi–Herat railway, double scholarships for Afghan students, and expand humanitarian and medical aid. Kabul welcomed the support and praised Kazakhstan’s role in promoting regional stability and sustainable development.