Afghan trade minister’s visit to India signals new push for regional investment cooperation

Afghanistan has launched a renewed diplomatic and economic outreach as Industry and Commerce Minister Nooruddin Azizi departed for New Delhi at the official invitation of the Government of India.

The visit places Afghanistan’s economic priorities at the centre, with a strong focus on expanding trade, strengthening regional transit routes, and attracting foreign investment.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the delegation will attend the Pragati Maidan International Exhibition and meet senior Indian officials, including the Ministers of External Affairs and Commerce, along with leading investors, business groups and traders.

Key discussions will centre on activating the full potential of the Chabahar Port corridor, increasing Afghan exports to India, and promoting long-term investment partnerships.

Officials in Kabul say the visit reflects Afghanistan’s strategy to reposition itself as a vital trade and transit hub linking South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Strengthening the Chabahar route—viewed as Afghanistan’s most reliable access to the sea—remains a priority amid regional transport disruptions.

The ministry stated that Azizi’s engagements in India aim to secure new market access for Afghan products, support joint industrial ventures, and enhance Afghanistan’s role in regional supply chains.

The visit also comes as Kazakhstan’s state-owned mining company, Tau-Ken Samruk, confirmed ongoing exploration activities in Afghanistan as part of its international critical minerals strategy. According to company chairman Togzhan Zhakupov, initial geological samples taken from two Afghan sites have shown “promising results,” and discussions are underway with local partners to move toward licensing.

Afghan officials view both the India trip and growing regional interest in Afghanistan’s mineral potential as signs of strengthening economic confidence. They expect the outcomes of the New Delhi visit to help expand trade flows, boost connectivity, and accelerate investment—key elements for Afghanistan’s economic recovery and long-term growth.