Uzbekistan President Calls for Constructive Engagement with Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan – During the celebration of Uzbekistan’s 34th Independence Day, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the need for constructive and practical cooperation with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

Highlighting Afghanistan’s pivotal role in regional and global security, he stressed that collaboration with its current government is essential for stability and development.

Mirziyoyev stated, “Given Afghanistan’s critical role in regional and global security, we believe it is necessary to engage in constructive and practical cooperation with its government.

We are particularly focused on establishing transport and logistics routes to foster mutually beneficial cooperation in new and promising directions with South Asian and Middle Eastern countries.”The president has previously expressed concerns over the international community’s waning attention to Afghanistan’s situation.

At the second “China-Central Asia” summit held in Astana, Kazakhstan, he proposed the formation of a high-level group to address Afghanistan’s challenges, underscoring the need for sustained global engagement.

Uzbekistan, sharing a border with Afghanistan, has consistently prioritized regional diplomacy. Mirziyoyev’s call for cooperation reflects a pragmatic approach to engaging with Afghanistan’s current realities, aiming to enhance regional stability and economic ties.

He highlighted the strategic importance of projects like the Trans-Afghan Railway, which aims to connect Uzbekistan to Pakistan through Afghanistan, boosting regional connectivity and economic potential.

This stance aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader efforts to position itself as a key player in Central Asia, facilitating trade and infrastructure development.

Mirziyoyev’s remarks signal a commitment to preventing Afghanistan’s isolation, advocating for dialogue and collaboration to address shared challenges and promote long-term prosperity in the region.