Kazakhstan views Afghanistan as a crucial ally - Tokayev's stance
Kazakhstan and Afghanistan Strengthen Ties Through Joint Projects
Kazakhstan and Afghanistan are deepening their partnership in various sectors, with a focus on trade, economy, transport, agriculture, geological exploration, digitalization, education, and humanitarian support.
The most significant ongoing project is the $500 million Herat-Torghundi railway agreement, signed in July 2025. This agreement aims to construct a 115-kilometer rail line linking western Afghanistan to Turkmenistan and beyond. The railway is expected to boost cargo transit and enhance regional trade connectivity, making Afghanistan a transit corridor for Kazakh energy to South Asia.
Beyond the railway, both countries have agreed on several other initiatives. In trade, they aim to increase bilateral trade turnover to $3 billion. Kazakhstan is ready to increase exports of chemical products, agricultural goods, fuels, lubricants, and mineral fertilizers, while Afghanistan plans to export fresh and dried fruits, mineral water, and non-alcoholic beverages to Kazakhstan.
Transport cooperation is another key area. Talks are underway to launch direct flights between Kabul and Astana, and to sign bilateral agreements on international road transport, including cargo transit under the TIR system. Joint road and rail transport companies are also planned.
In agriculture, Kazakhstan is focusing on enhancing Afghan agricultural exports and efficiency. They are discussing agricultural product protection agreements and food security measures, with Kazakhstan also committed to providing humanitarian aid and supporting food security and medical services in Afghanistan.
Geological exploration and mineral extraction are also areas of mutual interest. Kazakhstan has expressed interest in mining projects on Afghan territory as part of a broader economic partnership.
Cooperation in digital infrastructure is another target area, aimed at modernizing communication and improving economic integration. Specific projects are still under negotiation.
Education and humanitarian support are also part of the cooperation strategy. Kazakhstan plans to double scholarships for Afghan students and continues to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, including food, essential goods, and medicines.
These initiatives reflect a comprehensive cooperation strategy designed to strengthen economic ties, improve regional infrastructure, and foster sustainable development in Afghanistan through Kazakhstan’s support and investment. The joint projects are in various stages of planning and early implementation, with continued intergovernmental dialogue aiming to ensure coordination and progress across these sectors.
The President of Kazakhstan has considered Afghanistan an important partner in the region and has been determined to further strengthen the atmosphere of trust and cooperation between the two nations. The acting Minister of Industry and Trade of Afghanistan, Nuriddin Azizi, expressed gratitude for Kazakhstan's advocacy for Afghanistan in international organizations and humanitarian aid during a recent meeting.
References: 1. Akorda.kz 2. Kazinform 3. Khabar 24 4. Tengri News 5. Kazakh-Inform
Politics and general news about Kazakhstan and Afghanistan have highlighted the strengthening of their partnership, with ongoing joint projects in sectors such as trade, economy, transport, agriculture, geological exploration, digitalization, education, and humanitarian support. For instance, the $500 million Herat-Torghundi railway agreement is a significant project set to link western Afghanistan to Turkmenistan, boosting regional trade connectivity and potentially making Afghanistan a transit corridor for Kazakh energy to South Asia.
