Afghanistan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mohammad Naeem says Afghanistan serves as a natural bridge between Central and South Asia and stands ready to play an active and constructive role in regional and international processes.

Delivering a formal statement at the Termez Dialogue in Uzbekistan, he also highlighted Afghanistan’s commitment to regional peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.

In his remarks, Naeem extended heartfelt gratitude to the government of Uzbekistan for hosting and initiating this regional dialogue under the theme “Creating a Shared Space for Peace, Friendship, and Prosperity.” 

He praised Uzbekistan as a close neighbor and strategic partner, acknowledging the growing and unprecedented expansion of bilateral relations in recent years.

He noted that regional cooperation is vital not only for the benefit of the involved nations but also for global peace and stability, and that Afghanistan seeks to be a reliable partner in economic integration and regional connectivity.

Naeem also outlined several ongoing joint initiatives between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan, including the construction of the Afghan–Trans railway line, a vital project aimed at enhancing connectivity between Central and South Asia. 

He also referenced the 500-kilovolt power transmission line from Surkhandarya to Pul-e-Khumri, expected to significantly increase Afghanistan’s access to electricity. 

Additionally, he highlighted collaborative agricultural projects utilizing modern technologies and emphasized the signing of agreements worth $2.5 billion in energy, agriculture, and industrial sectors between the two nations.

These developments, he emphasized, reflect the shared commitment of both countries toward sustainable development and regional stability. 

He also reaffirmed the Islamic Emirate’s foreign policy, which is grounded in economic cooperation, regional engagement, and mutual respect. He reiterated that Afghanistan’s soil would not be used against any other country and called for reciprocal treatment in this regard.

The Deputy Foreign Minister expressed Afghanistan’s readiness to actively participate in regional initiatives across infrastructure, transportation, energy, trade, education, climate change, and sustainable development. 

He stressed that balanced regional development, dialogue, understanding, and trust-building are the cornerstones of meaningful and lasting progress.

Naeem urged the international community, regional states, global organizations, and financial institutions to recognize Afghanistan as a trustworthy partner and to support the country through investment in infrastructure, capacity-building, and economic development.

He concluded by reaffirming Afghanistan’s firm support for the Termez Dialogue, which he described as a significant platform for exchanging views, fostering mutual understanding, and building practical cooperation. 

“We look forward to the outcomes of this dialogue paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for our region and our people,” Naeem stated.

Amir Khan Muttaqi, Acting Foreign Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), has arrived in China for talks, it was announced on Monday.

The Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Ahmadullah Zahid, deputy minister of industry and commerce, is also part of the delegation.

Muttaqi is expected to discuss bilateral political, economic and trade relations with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

He will also attend a joint meeting with the foreign ministers of China and Pakistan.

Acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation Mawlawi Abdul Kabir has said  Afghan nationals deported from the United States will not face threats to their safety upon returning home.

Kabir said this in a statement read by Zakirullah Zakir, head of managing the affairs of the Prime Minister’s office, at a ceremony to distribute aid from India to returnees in Kabul.

Kabir said that the Islamic Emirate is prepared to welcome deportees and returning refugees warmly.

“You may have heard that the U.S. is set to deport around 14,000 Afghan refugees,” Zakir said.

“These individuals are our brothers and fellow citizens. We warmly welcome them. The situation in Afghanistan has improved significantly—both living and working conditions are better.

“Everyone’s life and property are secure. With the general amnesty in place, no one is questioned for their past employment.”

The aid from India, distributed during the ceremony, is expected to benefit 5,000 vulnerable families among the returnees.

Afghan officials expressed gratitude to India and other donor countries for their continued support.

Kalim-ur-Rehman Fani, Deputy Minister of Finance and Administration at the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation, acknowledged the challenges that returnees face.

“Those who come back from abroad inevitably encounter difficulties,” he said. “We are grateful to everyone who extends their assistance in this regard.”

Despite the Islamic Emirate’s efforts to provide support and housing, officials underscored the ongoing need for international assistance.

The government has announced plans to construct 58 new townships in 31 provinces to accommodate returnees and facilitate their reintegration.