Afghanistan’s Ministry of Mines and Petroleum says a number of Iranian companies and investors have expressed interest in investing in the country’s mining and petroleum sectors as economic cooperation between the two neighbors continues to expand.

According to the ministry, Deputy Minister for Policy and Programs Abdul Rahman Qanit met on Saturday with Iran’s ambassador to Afghanistan, Alireza Bikdeli, representatives of the Afghanistan-Iran Joint Chambers of Commerce, and an accompanying delegation to discuss investment opportunities and bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, Bikdeli outlined plans and initiatives linked to agreements reached during a previous visit by officials from Afghanistan’s Ministry of Mines and Petroleum to Iran. He emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the mining industry.

Qanit welcomed the delegation and highlighted Afghanistan’s significant mineral wealth, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to supporting foreign investment in the sector.

“Afghanistan is a mineral-rich country, and the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum welcomes all international investors interested in investing in the country’s mining sector,” he said, adding that the ministry is prepared to provide the necessary facilities and support for investors.

Representatives of the Iran-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce praised the ministry’s efforts to attract investment, saying improved security conditions and growing business opportunities have encouraged Iranian firms to explore projects in Afghanistan.

They noted that Iranian investors are especially interested in the mining and petroleum sectors and expressed the private sector’s willingness to cooperate in technical training, engineering development, and the transfer of expertise in mineral exploration and extraction.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Qanit assured participants that the ministry would provide full cooperation to investors in line with Afghanistan’s Mining Law and established procedures.

The discussions come as Afghanistan seeks to attract foreign investment to develop its vast untapped mineral resources and strengthen regional economic ties.

A high-level Iranian private sector delegation, led by the head of the Iran–Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce, has arrived in Kabul for a week-long visit aimed at expanding trade and investment cooperation between Afghanistan and Iran.

According to the Iranian Embassy in Kabul, the delegation will hold a series of meetings with Afghan business leaders and officials in Kabul before traveling to Mazar-i-Sharif. Discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral trade relations, increasing trade volumes, and exploring new investment opportunities in key economic sectors.

Officials from the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) said talks with the visiting delegation have already centered on enhancing commercial cooperation, supporting private sector partnerships, and increasing Afghan exports to Iranian markets.

Sayed Karim Hashimi, head of the ACCI, highlighted Afghanistan’s growing investment potential, stating that the country currently offers favorable conditions and significant opportunities for regional and international investors.

Meanwhile, Iran’s ambassador to Kabul said the delegation will assess existing trade-related challenges and work with Afghan counterparts to identify practical measures for improving economic cooperation and facilitating cross-border commerce.

Afghan trade officials noted that one of the primary objectives of the visit is to secure greater market access for Afghan products in Iran while laying the groundwork for stronger long-term economic partnerships between the two neighboring countries.

The Iranian delegation is expected to continue consultations with a wide range of Afghan business representatives and private sector stakeholders during its seven-day stay.

Afghanistan’s ambassador to China, Bilal Karimi, has promoted the country’s investment potential and strategic role in regional connectivity during the Seventh China–South Asia Cooperation Forum.

According to the Afghanistan Embassy in Beijing, Karimi participated in the forum and delivered remarks focused on Afghanistan’s economic opportunities and the importance of strengthening regional cooperation.

Speaking at the event, the Afghan envoy described Afghanistan as an attractive destination for investment, pointing to what he said were improvements in security, stability, and economy-focused policies. He called for greater trade, investment, and connectivity initiatives involving Afghanistan, China, and other countries across the region.

Karimi emphasized that expanded economic cooperation could help promote sustainable development and shared prosperity. He also highlighted Afghanistan’s geographic position, describing the country as a vital link connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and neighboring markets.

“Afghanistan serves as an important hub for regional connectivity,” Karimi said, expressing optimism about stronger economic partnerships and increased collaboration among regional stakeholders.

The China–South Asia Cooperation Forum brings together government officials, diplomats, and experts to discuss trade, economic integration, and regional development. Afghanistan’s participation reflects ongoing efforts to deepen economic engagement with regional partners and attract foreign investment.

Analysts say enhanced regional connectivity and economic cooperation projects could play an important role in facilitating trade, improving infrastructure links, and supporting long-term economic development across the region.