Iran and Afghanistan Discuss Strengthening Economic and Trade Relations
Kabul, The Gulf Observer: Alireza Bikdeli, head of Iran’s Embassy in Kabul, met with Nooruddin Azizi, Afghanistan’s acting minister of industry and commerce, on Sunday to discuss enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
During the meeting, Bikdeli reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to prioritizing relationships with neighboring countries as a cornerstone of its foreign policy. Azizi, in response, encouraged Iranian businesses to increase collaboration with Afghanistan and proposed developing a joint roadmap to expand trade exchanges between the two nations.
The meeting followed earlier discussions between Bikdeli and Sirajuddin Haqqani, Afghanistan’s acting minister of foreign affairs, where both sides addressed issues of mutual interest.
As of November 20, 2024, Iran’s non-oil exports to Afghanistan totaled $1.6 billion, according to the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration. The growing trade volume underscores the importance of fostering stronger economic ties between the neighboring states.
