Afghanistan Times
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KABUL — Kazakhstan has announced plans to invest $500 million in the construction of the Torghandi-Herat railway line, signaling a major boost in infrastructure and trade ties with Afghanistan.
During a visit to Kabul on Monday, Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin said Astana is also establishing a logistics and transport company in Herat to advance the railway project. The move is seen as a key step in improving regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
In addition to the railway plan, Zhumangarin said Kazakhstan is ready to launch a new internet cable project to provide affordable internet access in Afghanistan. He also highlighted Kazakh interest in investing across Afghanistan’s mining, oil, and gas sectors, noting that technical teams are currently in Kabul exploring opportunities.
Kazakhstan further expressed readiness to issue visas to Afghan traders, begin direct flights between the two countries, enhance banking cooperation, and work jointly in the fields of health, education, and bilateral trade.
Welcoming the initiative, Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar emphasized Afghanistan’s commitment to boosting trade with regional partners. He noted that Kabul and Astana have signed a draft roadmap to increase bilateral trade to $3 billion, which is expected to drive growth in sectors such as agriculture, mining, transport, and industry.
Baradar also invited Kazakh investment in Afghanistan’s mining sector and proposed cooperation in the preservation and export of agricultural and livestock products, alongside broader banking and energy partnerships.
