Kazakh-Afghan Business Forum opens in Astana

Kazakh-Afghan Business Forum opened in the Kazakh capital Astana on Wednesday bringing together trade officials and members of the private sector.

The Afghan Ministry of Industry and Commerce said that the forum is being attended by representatives of the banking sector, transport, communications, manufacturers of carpets, beverages, medicines and precious stones.

The forum also includes representatives from agriculture, fuel, logistics, services, industries and construction sectors.

The forum is aimed at increasing the volume of trade between Afghanistan and Kazakhstan, addressing problems and increasing coordination between private sectors of the two countries.

Simultaneously, a three-day expo showcasing Afghan and Kazakh products has opened in Astana.

At least 350 Afghan companies have products on display at 70 booths. This includes agricultural, industrial and mineral products.

Nooruddin Azizi, Acting Minister of Industry and Commerce, said that the expansion of trade relations between Afghanistan and Kazakhstan could lead to the improvement of the economic situation of both countries.

“Today, a good opportunity has been created for companies from different industries to discuss various issues such as exchanging goods and services, presenting business proposals, sharing experiences and knowledge, and even signing cooperation and commercial contracts,” Azizi said.

According to statistics, currently the trade exchange between Afghanistan and Kazakhstan totals $2 billion per year.

Afghans participating at the expo have expressed hope that they can draw the attention of foreign investors to Afghanistan.