MAZAR-I-SHARIF, September 22. /Dunyo IA/. Afghan news outlet “TOLOnews” has published an article on the development of trade and economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

Publication notes that a business meeting between producers from Balkh Province and an Uzbek delegation comprising 80 representatives of the private sector was held in Mazar-i-Sharif. The sides discussed increasing exports, secure payments, expanding trade ties and joint investment and Uzbek products were also showcased.

Mohammad Ibrahim Ghazanfar, Head of the Balkh Chamber of Commerce and Investment, announced the launch of the “UzEx” platform in cooperation with Ghazanfar Bank to facilitate secure transfers of funds to Uzbekistan once goods are delivered to the port of Hairatan. Yarkin Malikov, head of the Uzbekistan Exporters Association, and entrepreneurs from both countries emphasized the importance of direct contacts. Uzbek businessman Abdulqadir Burkhanov noted an increase in product supplies, while Afghan entrepreneur Ismatullah Ishaqzai described Uzbekistan as a “gateway to Central Asia”.

In recent years, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan have paid particular attention to expanding trade and economic ties, increasing export and import volumes, and strengthening cooperation in the transport sector, “TOLOnews” concludes.