Weezha Roz-Mullah Mohammad Esa Sani, the Acting Minister of Public Works of Afghanistan, met with Zhao Xing, the Chinese Ambassador to Afghanistan, in Kabul.
The two sides exchanged views on key issues such as infrastructure development, trade cooperation, and major construction projects.
The Ministry of Public Works stated that the meeting held particular significance in advancing key projects like the Wakhan Corridor and the Afghan-Trans project, which aim to connect Central Asia with South Asia through Afghanistan.
At the beginning of the meeting, Mullah Mohammad Esa Sani emphasized the long-standing social, economic, and political relations between Afghanistan and China.
These relations, which date back to various periods in the history of the two countries, have always served as a solid foundation for ongoing cooperation.
During the meeting, the Acting Minister of Public Works expressed gratitude for China’s continuous support and cooperation with Afghanistan in various fields.
This support has been notable not only in trade but also in infrastructure and development sectors.
Wakhan Corridor: The New Silk Road
One of the main topics of discussion was the Wakhan Corridor project, which connects Afghanistan and China.
As part of the New Silk Road, the Wakhan Corridor plays a vital role in enhancing trade and transportation links between the two countries and the broader region.
Mullah Mohammad Esa Sani added that the surveying of the corridor has been completed by the Ministry of Public Works, and design work is currently underway.
This project, as a crucial economic corridor, could significantly contribute to regional trade and development, strengthening Afghanistan’s position as a strategic transit hub.
Afghan-Trans Project The Afghan-Trans project, which aims to connect Central Asian countries with South Asia through Afghanistan, was another key focus of the meeting. According to the Acting Minister, discussions to initiate the project are ongoing at the leadership level of the Afghan government and with relevant countries.
Afghanistan is fully prepared to begin the practical implementation of this project.
The Afghan-Trans project could significantly facilitate trade flows and the movement of goods, contributing to Afghanistan’s economic development.
Emphasis on Trade and Economic Relations At the end of the meeting, both sides emphasized the continuation and strengthening of trade and economic relations between Afghanistan and China.
Discussions also covered commercial transit, infrastructure projects, and bilateral cooperation in areas such as transportation, energy, and infrastructure development.
These discussions reflect the shared commitment of both countries to further expand economic cooperation, which would benefit both nations.
Economic Analysts’ Perspective:
Economic analysts, particularly in Weezha Roz,note that given Afghanistan’s strategic geographical position as a transit corridor, projects like the Wakhan Corridor and Afghan-Trans could bring significant economic and trade opportunities to the country. However, challenges such as security, funding, and internal issues could still hinder the progress of these projects.
On the other hand, this cooperation could help Afghanistan solidify its position as a strategic transit hub in the region and play an effective role in its economic development.
Conclusion:
The recent meeting between the Acting Minister of Public Works of Afghanistan and the Chinese Ambassador in Kabul marks a new step in bilateral relations, which could strengthen trade and infrastructure cooperation.
Projects like the Wakhan Corridor and Afghan-Trans, in addition to enhancing economic ties between the two countries, could help improve Afghanistan’s trade and infrastructure development.
While challenges remain, political will and sustained cooperation could help achieve these goals and solidify Afghanistan’s position as a strategic regional transit hub.
Weezha Roz
