During his official visit to Azerbaijan, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, Deputy PM for Economic Affairs, met on the sidelines of the ECO Summit, with Rashid Meredov,Deputy PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, in the city of Khankendi, Azerbaijan.
The meeting focused on key and joint economic issues between Afghanistan and Turkmenistan.
Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund emphasized the importance of enhancing diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Turkmenistan, particularly through the appointment of an Ambassador in Ashgabat and a Consul General in Mary.
He noted that one of the major joint economic initiatives between Kabul and Ashgabat is the TAPI project,which has paved the way for expanding cooperation not only between the two countries but also across the broader region.
He further stated that the Islamic Emirate has finalized the route map for the TAPI project and is making every effort to ensure the implementation of the project in Afghanistan proceeds without any delays or obstacles.
Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund also stressed the importance of strengthening bilateral trade between Kabul and Ashgabat by opening chambers of commerce and banking branches in both capitals and facilitating the issuance of visas to Afghan traders.
He added that joint efforts between the two countries in areas such as mining, transport, transit, services, regional infrastructure, and fundamental project management would play an effective role in ensuring economic stability, development, and prosperity in both nations.
Referring to Turkmenistan’s experience and progress in agriculture, the Deputy PM requested Turkmenistan to share its expertise in this field with Afghanistan and to have technical teams from both countries work collaboratively.
Following this, Rashid Meredov, Deputy PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, spoke and reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s longstanding interest in maintaining good and friendly relations with Afghanistan.
He stated “Our President has consistently supported Afghanistan on international platforms and has commended the progress achieved there.”
Mr. Meredov said Turkmenistan is ready to expand its cooperation with Afghanistan beyond political ties, particularly in the areas of economic
and trade relations. He specifically referred to the TAPI project, noting that the implementation of this major energy project is progressing according to plan.
He also requested the Afghan side to share the detailed route map of the TAPI project wit Turkmenistan to finalize the remaining technical and operational steps.
The meeting also underscored the need to accelerate the implementation of ongoing and upcoming joint projects between the two countries, ensuring their timely completion.
In conclusion, both sides agreed that the Deputy PMs of the two countries will follow up on the mentioned cooperation areas on a regular basis to monitor progress and ensure effective implementation.