Afghan, Russian Private Sectors Sign $103 Million in Trade Deals

Fifteen trade agreements worth $103 million were signed between Afghan and Russian private sector representatives in Kabul.

The agreements were signed in the presence of Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, and Alexey Overchuk, Russian Deputy Prime Minister.

The agreements primarily cover imports of medicines, wheat, flour, and cooking oil from Russia, as well as exports of fresh Afghan fruits, particularly pomegranates, to Russia.

Meanwhile, a meeting between businesspeople and private sector representatives from both countries was held in Kabul.

The head of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment described the meeting as an opportunity to boost trade and economic cooperation with Russia.

Sayed Karim Hashemi, head of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said: "The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment is ready to strengthen ties between businesspeople from both countries, facilitate cooperation and dialogue, and play an active and constructive role in pursuing trade opportunities."

Meanwhile, Russian representatives expressed Moscow's readiness to expand trade, strengthen agricultural cooperation, and invest in Afghanistan's manufacturing projects.

Dmitry Antonov, Chairman of the Council for Cooperation with Afghanistan at the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: "We have started discussions with Afghan businesspeople. I believe today marks one of the most important visits by Russian businesspeople to Afghanistan. A large delegation of government officials, heads of ministries, and Russian institutions is also accompanying us."

The agreements were signed during a high-level Russian delegation's visit to Kabul, aimed at expanding economic ties and exploring investment opportunities between the two countries.