Uzbek Premier's Landmark Visit to Strengthen Afghanistan Ties

Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov's visit to Afghanistan marks the highest-level foreign official's visit since the Taliban's return. Welcomed by Taliban officials, Aripov discussed bilateral relations and signed five trade agreements. The visit included an Uzbek products exhibition inauguration and trilateral trade talks with Afghanistan and Azerbaijan.

Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov arrived in Afghanistan on Saturday, making it the highest-level visit by a foreign official since the Taliban's return to power three years ago.

Aripov, leading a delegation, was received at Kabul airport by Abdul Salam Hanafi, the Taliban's deputy prime minister, along with other senior government members, according to a statement from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

During his visit, Aripov met Taliban leaders to discuss bilateral relations and bolster trade and business activities between the two countries. Five trade and investment agreements were signed. The delegation also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing Uzbek products.

Earlier in the week, an Uzbek delegation had meetings with officials from the Ministry of Commerce. On Friday, Afghan media reported a trilateral meeting in Kabul among the economy ministers of Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan to explore ways to enhance trade ties.

Uzbekistan and Afghanistan share a 144-kilometer (89-mile) border and have recently seen an improvement in relations. The Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021, as US and NATO troops withdrew after 20 years of war. Despite the world not recognizing Afghanistan's Taliban government, the international community remains cautious about the group's restrictive measures, particularly against women and minorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)