The Ministry of Finance of Afghanistan and UAE-based DP World have signed an investment term sheet to modernize key commercial land ports, marking a significant step in enhancing the country’s trade infrastructure.

Abdullah Azzam, Head of the Economic Affairs Office at the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that the agreement opens the door for foreign investment and new contracts.

He said that that under this agreement, Afghanistan’s ports will be modernized and equipped with cutting-edge technology.

The agreement outlines the development of cargo handling facilities, port management systems, and operations using advanced equipment in line with international standards. Hairatan Port will be upgraded in the first phase, followed by Torkham Port in the second phase, with subsequent expansion to logistics corridors, economic zones, and other national projects.

DP World officials emphasized that the modernization of these ports will not only increase trade but also create new employment opportunities.

They highlighted Afghanistan’s strategic location as a vital link between Central and South Asia and pledged continued efforts to support the country’s economic growth.

Economic analysts believe the investment will boost trade efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the country’s transit capacity. Modernizing the ports is also expected to attract further foreign investment and strengthen Afghanistan’s overall economy.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has stated that “the majority of those killed in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq were innocent civilians.”

Speaking to CNN’s Christiane Amanpour on Saturday during the Newsmaker Interview at the Doha Forum, al-Sharaa said: “In every war in the region—whether in Iraq or Afghanistan—we saw that most of the casualties were civilians, yet many of them were labeled as terrorists. The real criminals are those who call others terrorists.”

He also commented on the situation in Syria, asserting that the Assad regime has killed more than one million people over the past 14 years and that nearly 250,000 individuals remain missing. According to al-Sharaa, the prolonged conflict has displaced more than 14 million Syrians.

He added that the difficult experiences of regional wars over the past 25 years have led people to “better understand the true meaning of the word ‘terrorist’ and who truly deserves such a label.”

Western forces fought in Afghanistan for two decades under the banner of counter-terrorism, a period during which tens of thousands of civilians were killed.

Meanwhile, four years after the Islamic Emirate’s return to power, the international community continues to express concern about potential terrorist threats from Afghan territory, while the Islamic Emirate maintains that Afghan soil will not be used to threaten any country.

The European Union has issued a renewed alert that Afghan women are becoming increasingly vulnerable amid migration, internal displacement, and ongoing return efforts, calling for swift measures to uphold their rights and dignity.

In a statement released during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, the EU emphasized that combating violence against women and ensuring their safety in times of crisis remains a core priority.

The EU mission in Afghanistan noted that women—particularly those living in remote or conflict-affected regions—face elevated threats of exploitation, abuse, and limited access to essential services.

“Ending violence, preserving dignity, and supporting women in times of crisis are central to our efforts. We prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable women in all our humanitarian and protection programs,” the statement said.

The EU reiterated its commitment to increasing support for Afghan women in dire circumstances, including improved access to protection services, legal aid, and emergency assistance.

As humanitarian needs continue to grow nationwide, the EU urged all parties to ensure Afghan women receive timely support and can live free from violence and discrimination.