The long-delayed CASA-1000 energy project is expected to begin commercial operations in summer 2027, with construction in Afghanistan due for completion earlier that year, officials said.

Progress on the power project was reviewed during meetings in Dushanbe between April 18 and 20, involving Tajik authorities, Afghanistan’s state power utility Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat, the World Bank, and engineering firm KAMANI Engineering Corporation.

Tajik Energy Minister Daler Juma said the project is key to boosting regional cooperation and enabling the export of surplus hydropower from Central Asia to energy-deficient markets in South Asia.

Construction has already been completed in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Pakistan, while work continues in Afghanistan. According to officials, the Afghan segment is on track to be finalized by spring 2027, paving the way for full project operations later that summer.

Once operational, CASA-1000 is expected to strengthen regional energy security, support economic integration, and expand electricity trade across Central and South Asia.

Afghanistan and Iran have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing regional dialogue during a phone call between their foreign ministers.

Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi described bilateral cooperation as positive and steadily progressing, welcoming increased trade and expanding collaboration across multiple sectors.

Muttaqi also underscored the importance of diplomacy, calling ongoing engagement between Iran and the United States a constructive development, and stressing that outstanding issues should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, for his part, praised the continued growth of ties between Tehran and Kabul and expressed support for further expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

He also briefed his Afghan counterpart on the latest developments in talks between Iran and the United States.

Officials say the exchange reflects a shared interest in sustaining dialogue, deepening economic links, and promoting greater stability across the region.

Ariana Radio and Television Network (ATN) has secured exclusive broadcast rights for the Afghanistan Wrestling Premier League under a five-year agreement, reinforcing its role in promoting sport and national unity.

The deal was signed in Kabul between the Afghanistan National Wrestling Federation and ATN, marking a significant step in developing professional platforms for traditional sports in the country.

The inaugural season will run from June 1 to June 10, 2026, featuring around 350 wrestlers competing across 10 weight categories. Matches will take place nightly at a 2,500-seat indoor arena in Kabul and will be broadcast live on Ariana Television from 18:00 to 21:00 local time.

Organisers say the five-year agreement is designed to ensure continuity and growth for the league, helping to build a structured competition system and long-term opportunities for athletes.

ATN has increasingly invested in sports programming as part of its broader commitment to fostering unity and social cohesion. By bringing nationwide coverage to events like the Wrestling Premier League, the network aims to connect audiences across the country, celebrate shared traditions, and provide a platform for emerging talent.

Officials say the initiative will boost wrestling’s profile, support athletes, and contribute to the wider development of Afghanistan’s sports sector.

Wrestling fans in Afghanistan are encouraged to follow Ariana Television and Ariana News’ social media platforms for updates and schedules on this exciting event.