Afghanistan’s Minister of Economy, Din Mohammad Hanif, met on Tuesday with Turhan Saleh, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Afghanistan, to discuss expanding development cooperation, supporting the private sector and implementing development projects.

According to the Ministry of Economy, Hanif said sanctions, the freezing of Afghanistan’s foreign exchange reserves, the United Nations’ non-recognition of the Islamic Emirate and the suspension of international development assistance had affected the country’s economic development.

He also highlighted economic growth, increased domestic production, efforts to combat drug cultivation and water resource management. Hanif identified climate change and the large-scale return of migrants as additional factors putting pressure on the country’s economy and society.

The minister said providing shelter and building roads, schools, clinics and water supply networks for returnees were among the government’s priorities. He added that infrastructure and production projects could help create jobs, increase household incomes, reduce poverty and support sustainable economic growth.

Meanwhile, Saleh welcomed Afghanistan’s economic achievements over the past five years and reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to continuing development cooperation with the country.

He also expressed the organization’s readiness to support efforts to combat drug cultivation, construct check dams, implement development projects, provide training programmes and support small businesses and the private sector.

The meeting concluded with both sides emphasizing the need for stronger coordination and continued cooperation to expand economic opportunities, create jobs and promote sustainable development in Afghanistan.