Afghanistan expands regional diplomacy with economic and security outreach across Asia

Afghanistan is ramping up its regional diplomatic efforts, aiming to bolster both economic and security ties across Asia.

During his speech at the fair’s opening ceremony, Muttaqi emphasized Afghanistan’s untapped natural resources, young population, and geographic location at the crossroads of Central and South Asia as key assets that position the country as a potential regional trade and transit hub.

He reassured international investors that Afghanistan now offers a secure environment for business, inviting foreign enterprises to engage confidently in sectors ranging from energy to logistics. "Afghanistan is open for business," he stated, promoting the country as a gateway for regional connectivity.

Muttaqi also singled out China as a crucial economic partner, citing Beijing’s growing involvement in Afghanistan’s agriculture, infrastructure, and technology development. His remarks align with China's broader regional ambitions under its Belt and Road Initiative, in which Afghanistan could play a pivotal role.

In a parallel diplomatic initiative, Russian media reported that Afghan officials will participate for the first time in the 13th International Meeting of High Representatives Responsible for Security Issues, to be held in Moscow from May 27 to 29. The high-level security conference will convene representatives from numerous countries and international organizations to discuss regional stability and security cooperation.

Afghanistan’s increasing participation in both economic forums and security dialogues marks a clear effort by the Taliban-led administration to assert its place in regional affairs, despite ongoing global concerns over domestic governance, women’s rights, and political inclusivity.

With Kabul looking eastward for partnerships, these moves signal a broader strategic pivot aimed at redefining Afghanistan’s role in Asia’s evolving geopolitical and economic landscape.

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Afghanistan Diplomacy economics