Bilateral relations between Ashgabat and Kabul in 2024 continue to actively develop. During a recent visit of the Afghan delegation to Turkmenistan, a series of memorandums of understanding were signed aimed at implementing large-scale infrastructure projects, reports Eurasiatoday.ru.
A representative of the Ministry of Mining and Petroleum of Afghanistan, Homayoon Afghan, emphasized during the Turkmen-Afghan negotiations that important agreements were reached following the Taliban delegation’s visit to Ashgabat, which are crucial for the implementation of several key projects.
Energy Cooperation: A Guarantee of Stability
One of the key areas of cooperation is the energy sector. Special attention is being paid to the TAPI gas pipeline project, which is intended to link Turkmenistan's gas resources with the consumer markets of Pakistan and India, passing through Afghan territory.
Experts note that the implementation of this project will not only provide the Islamic Emirate with additional revenue from gas transit but will also serve as a powerful stimulus for the country's economic growth.
Parallel to the pipeline project, the construction of a 500 kV power transmission line is planned, which will enhance the region's energy security.
Development of Transport Infrastructure: New Opportunities
Equally important is the development of transport infrastructure. The construction of the Turghundi railway station and the Herat-Sanobar railway will open new opportunities for trade development and economic integration between the two countries.
This will significantly reduce the time and cost of cargo delivery and also promote the development of tourism.
Expert Opinions
Economic experts unanimously agree that the implementation of the agreed projects will not only strengthen bilateral relations but also make a significant contribution to the development of the entire region.
According to economic expert Shams Rahman Ahmadi, the TAPI project can provide substantial economic growth for Afghanistan in the short term.
Abdul Zuhur Mudaber emphasizes that the signed agreements open up new prospects for economic cooperation, which is especially important in the current conditions.
Practical Implementation: The First Steps
The Afghan delegation, led by Acting Minister of Mining and Petroleum Hedayatullah Badri, has already begun practical work on implementing joint projects. Specific timelines and phases for the implementation of the agreed plans are expected to be determined in the near future.
Strengthening cooperation between Turkmenistan and Afghanistan in the energy and transport sectors is an important step towards creating a stable and prosperous region.
The implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects will not only improve the living standards of the population in both countries but will also make a significant contribution to ensuring security and stability in Central Asia.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
September 2, 2024