Afghanistan seeks to expand global ties through sports diplomacy: Muttaqi

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met with representatives of countries that participated in a traditional wrestling festival in Kabul.

During the meeting, Muttaqi described cultural ties between Afghanistan and the region as historic, stressing that such shared traditions can serve as a foundation for stronger engagement. He said Kabul is seeking to expand and deepen its international relations through sports diplomacy.

The foreign minister highlighted ongoing efforts to facilitate visas and provide necessary support for athletes, noting that steps are being taken to ease participation in international sporting events.

He also said that since the return of the Islamic Emirate, notable progress has been made in promoting traditional sports across the country.

Representatives from participating countries praised the organization of the festival and the management of the event, as well as the standard of traditional wrestling in Afghanistan. They also expressed readiness to strengthen cooperation and joint initiatives in the field of sports.

The international traditional wrestling festival, hosted by Afghanistan, began last Thursday in Kabul, bringing together athletes from seven countries. Around 60 foreign and 100 Afghan athletes competed in the event.

Foreign participants included representatives from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Iran, and Turkey, highlighting regional engagement through sport.