China and Afghanistan discuss strengthening financial and economic ties

Afghanistan and China have taken steps to deepen financial and banking cooperation, as acting central bank governor Noor Ahmad Agha met with Chinese Ambassador Zhao Xing in Kabul to discuss expanding economic ties, investment opportunities, and bilateral collaboration.

The acting governor of Afghanistan’s central bank, Noor Ahmad Agha, met with China’s ambassador to Kabul, Zhao Xing, to explore ways to enhance financial and banking cooperation between the two nations. The discussions focused on expanding economic collaboration, improving investment conditions, and fostering stronger bilateral relations. 

During the meeting, Agha highlighted China’s role as a key neighbor and partner for Afghanistan, noting that the central bank has successfully established connections with major international financial institutions over the past four years. He reiterated the bank’s commitment to further developing these ties, particularly in the areas of technical assistance, financial services, and investment facilitation. 

Agha emphasized that these efforts aim to create a more stable environment for domestic and foreign investors, streamline trade operations, and extend reliable banking services across Afghanistan. He also acknowledged China’s ongoing economic cooperation and expressed hopes for deeper engagement in Afghanistan’s financial sector. 

In response, Ambassador Zhao Xing reaffirmed China’s willingness to support Afghanistan’s economic recovery and development. He stated that Beijing is keen to play a constructive role in rebuilding Afghanistan’s economy and stressed the importance of sustained cooperation between the two countries. 

The meeting was also attended by Sediqullah Khaled, the first deputy governor of Afghanistan’s central bank, who contributed to technical discussions on financial collaboration. 

China has maintained active diplomatic and economic relations with Afghanistan’s de facto authorities, including the exchange of ambassadors last year. Among its major investments in the country is the Mes Aynak copper mine, one of the world’s largest untapped copper deposits, underscoring Beijing’s long-term economic interests in Afghanistan. 

The talks reflect growing efforts to strengthen financial ties and create new opportunities for trade and investment between the two nations.

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