Afghan minister calls for enhanced economic cooperation with Iran
Zabul, IRNA – Nooruddin Azizi, the acting minister of industry and commerce of Afghanistan, has called for enhanced cooperation and joint investment with Iran, saying the export and import capacity of the two neighbors has increased in recent years.
Azizi made the remarks at the Iran-Afghanistan Joint Economic Commission meeting held on Saturday in the city of Hirmand, Sistan and Baluchestan Province.
Highlighting the trade potential between the two countries, he said that transit from Iran’s Chabahar Port to the Milak Border Terminal is safe, secure, and unrestricted. He added that this route could become a competitive alternative to regional ports, including Karachi, due to its lower costs.
According to Azizi, the Chabahar-Milak railway and highway projects are being advanced to strengthen infrastructure, as the route plays a vital role in facilitating trade and supporting families whose livelihoods depend on transportation activities.
He noted that the Taliban government’s macroeconomic programs include economic and infrastructure development, investment in Chabahar free zones, and efforts to attract domestic investment — all of which contribute to employment growth and commercial expansion.
“Afghanistan’s policy is balanced and aligned with Islamic countries and other neighbors,” he emphasized, adding that “relations with Iran exemplify respect for neighborliness and brotherly cooperation.”
Azizi stated that his presence in Hirmand was an opportunity to reinforce cooperation between Kabul and Tehran. He stressed that Afghanistan is committed to coordinating with Iran on water resource management, and any plans or actions in this area will be implemented with mutual consent.
He also expressed gratitude to the officials of Sistan and Baluchestan Province, acknowledging their longstanding support for Afghan nationals and their assistance to refugees.
Leading a high-ranking delegation, Azizi arrived in Iran’s southeasternmost province via the Milak Border Terminal, known as the golden gateway for Afghanistan’s access to open waters.
