Hirmand: Nooruddin Azizi, the acting minister of industry and commerce of Afghanistan, has called for enhanced cooperation and joint investment with Iran, stating that the export and import capacity of the two neighbors has increased in recent years. Azizi made these remarks at the Iran-Afghanistan Joint Economic Commission meeting held in the city of Hirmand, Sistan and Baluchestan Province.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Azizi highlighted the trade potential between the two countries, emphasizing that transit from Iran’s Chabahar Port to the Milak Border Terminal is safe, secure, and unrestricted. He pointed out that this route could serve as a competitive alternative to regional ports, including Karachi, due to its lower costs.
Azizi noted that the Chabahar-Milak railway and highway projects are being advanced to strengthen infrastructure, as the route is crucial for facilitating trade and supporting families reliant on transportation activities. He mentioned that the Taliban government’s macroeconomic programs focus on economic and infrastructure development, investment in Chabahar free zones, and efforts to attract domestic investment, all contributing to employment growth and commercial expansion.
He stated that Afghanistan’s policy is balanced and aligned with Islamic countries and other neighbors, underscoring that relations with Iran exemplify respect for neighborliness and brotherly cooperation. Azizi’s visit to Hirmand was seen as an opportunity to reinforce cooperation between Kabul and Tehran.
Furthermore, Azizi stressed Afghanistan’s commitment to coordinating with Iran on water resource management, noting that any actions in this area will be implemented with mutual consent. He also expressed gratitude to the officials of Sistan and Baluchestan Province for their longstanding support for Afghan nationals and their assistance to refugees.
Azizi led a high-ranking delegation that arrived in Iran’s southeasternmost province via the Milak Border Terminal, known as the golden gateway for Afghanistan’s access to open waters.