Dr. Mohammad Naeem, Deputy Minister for Finance and Administration of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has met with Gilles Bertrand to discuss expanding political, economic, and trade relations between Afghanistan and the European Union.
According to the Foreign Ministry, both sides also reviewed ways to strengthen long-term and sustainable cooperation. Dr. Naeem stressed the importance of balanced relations based on mutual respect and called on the EU to shift from short-term assistance projects toward more sustainable development programs.
For his part, the EU Special Representative reaffirmed continued cooperation with Afghanistan, stating that “the doors of Europe are open” for Afghan exports. He also noted that efforts have increased to facilitate access for Afghan goods to European markets.