Afghanistan and Turkmenistan Sign Deal to Expand Torghundi Dry Port

In a move to enhance transportation and economic cooperation between Afghanistan and Turkmenistan, a key agreement and contract were signed for the development and investment in the dry port of Torghundi in Herat province.

The signed agreement between Afghanistan and Turkmenistan, aimed at strengthening regional commercial and transit infrastructure, promises significant progress in bilateral relations.Under this agreement, Torghundi port will be developed with an initial investment of 5 million US dollars. The project includes the construction of modern warehouses, the design and establishment of new facilities for loading and unloading commercial goods, and the improvement of infrastructure related to the Torghundi–Herat railway.

As one of the main trade gateways in western Afghanistan, this port will play a crucial role in facilitating commercial exchanges.Mohammad Ashraf Haqshenas, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, stated: “This agreement encompasses the construction of new warehouses, advanced facilities, and their activation to improve the loading and unloading process along the Torghundi–Herat railway.”He emphasized that the investment is funded by Turkmenistan, but the project’s implementation within Afghanistan will comply with domestic laws.

Upon completion, the investment costs will be repaid to the Turkmen company from the port’s revenues.Economic experts view this investment as a positive step for Afghanistan’s economy.

Mohammad Karim Azimi, an economic analyst, said: “Turkmenistan and even Russia are interested in investing in Afghanistan’s railway infrastructure. These projects can boost trade and strengthen Afghanistan’s transit position.”Abdul Jabbar Safi, head of Kabul’s Industrialists Association, added: “Turkmenistan has long been a reliable partner of Afghanistan and seeks to transit its energy through Afghanistan to South Asian markets.

These collaborations will generate significant revenue for the country.”As a key commercial partner, Turkmenistan collaborates extensively with Afghanistan on regional projects such as TAPI, fiber optics, and railways.The development of Torghundi port will not only bolster bilateral trade but also pave the way for increased regional exchanges and better connectivity to global markets.