A delegation from Kazakhstan, led by the head of the country’s Institute of Strategic Studies, met with Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting foreign minister of Afghanistan, during a visit to Kabul.
During the meeting, Muttaqi expressed hope that bilateral engagement would not only boost economic and trade cooperation but also pave the way for elevated political relations between the two nations.
Zia Ahmad Takal, head of public relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated: “Mr. Muttaqi said Afghanistan regards the Republic of Kazakhstan as a close ally and hopes for even stronger positive engagement between the two countries. He noted that Afghanistan is eager to enhance its political ties alongside progress in economic and trade sectors.”
The two sides also discussed expanding cooperation in areas such as reconstruction, infrastructure development, leveraging Kazakhstan’s technical expertise, and collaboration in agriculture, trade, industry, and e-governance.
Takal further added: “According to him, the President of Kazakhstan pays special attention to Afghan affairs, which has helped foster strong and broad-based relations between the two countries.”
Meanwhile, several analysts view the strengthening of ties between Afghanistan and Central Asian countries, especially Kazakhstan, as beneficial for Afghanistan.
Political analyst Moeen Gul Samkani said: “Kazakhstan is a populous and powerful country with which we can engage in trade and enhance political and cultural ties. Given their historical relations with Afghanistan and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, this is an opportunity that both nations can use to their advantage.”
Previously, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Kazakh Embassy in Kabul told TOLOnews that Astana sees stability in Afghanistan as vital for regional and Central Asian security and had emphasized cooperation in multiple sectors.