Afghanistan could become Eurasia's economic crossroads: National Interest

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - Kabul: Kazakhstan has adopted a strategy of pragmatic interaction and development of economic cooperation with Afghanistan instead of geopolitical rivalries, according to an article written by Kazakh President's Special Representative for Afghanistan Yerkin Tokumov and Aldaniz Gosinov.

 

Afghanistan; The key to stability and prosperity in Central Asia

The authors believe that a stable Afghanistan with a dynamic economy is of fundamental importance for the security and prosperity of Central Asia and across Eurasia. Astana is therefore trying to transform Afghanistan from a country dependent on foreign aid to a regional hub of production, trade and transit. This view reflects Kazakhstan's deep understanding of Afghanistan's economic potential and its role in regional connectivity.

 

Expand economic cooperation

The article points to the expansion of economic cooperation between Afghanistan and Kazakhstan, saying that the volume of bilateral trade will reach $541.8 million in 2025 and the two countries target to increase this figure to $3 billion based on a joint roadmap. This ambitious goal shows the serious determination of the two countries to expand economic relations.

 

In addition to exporting grain and flour, Kazakhstan has also expanded cooperation with Afghanistan in the fields of mining, technology, health services, water resources management, railway development and transit corridors, the authors added. They said the cooperation could strengthen Afghanistan's position as a bridge between Central Asia and regional and international markets.

 

Replacing "big game" with "big profit"

The article concludes by emphasizing that Afghanistan's stability is achieved through trade, investment, regional connectivity and sustainable economic cooperation, and Kazakhstan is trying to replace the "big game" with "big profits" in the heart of Eurasia with a pragmatic approach. This approach can be a model for other countries in the region in dealing with Afghanistan.

 

According to experts, the article shows a change in the view of some countries in the region on Afghanistan's position in the economic and transit equations of Eurasia. The survey shows that Kazakhstan is seeking to exploit Afghanistan's economic and transit potential with a pragmatic approach, which can be a model for other countries in the region.

 

Observers say the emphasis on turning Afghanistan from a country dependent on foreign aid to a production and transit hub shows Kazakhstan's correct understanding of the country's economic potential. According to experts, the realization of this vision requires comprehensive cooperation between the countries of the region and investment in transit and economic infrastructure.