Iran and Afghanistan Chambers of Commerce Highlight Expanded Trade Cooperation at Kabul Expo

The 5th Abu Hanifa International Expo commenced in Kabul, Afghanistan, on October 7, serving as a platform for strengthening economic ties between Iran and Afghanistan. Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Mahmoud Siyadat, Chairman of the Iran and Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce, highlighted a shift in the approach to economic cooperation between the two nations. He noted that the total value of Iran's contracts signed with Afghanistan at the exhibition exceeded $400 million. Once these agreements are finalized, Siyadat stated, they will pave the way for increased economic collaboration.

Siyadat emphasized the significance of Iran's participation in the expo, describing it as highly important for Iranian traders and entrepreneurs. More than 50 Iranian businesspeople and traders attended various sectors of the exhibition. He pointed out that unlike in the past, when interactions primarily focused on the export of goods, traders and entrepreneurs are now also concentrating on areas such as joint ventures, the transfer of knowledge and technology, and involvement in domestic production within Afghanistan.

The chairman stressed the need for the Iranian government's support to develop economic relations with Afghanistan. He outlined several measures to leverage existing capacities, including supporting investment in Afghanistan, expanding the export of technical and engineering services, activating an export guarantee fund, and providing necessary incentives for exporters. These steps, he suggested, would enhance bilateral economic cooperation.

The expo, held in the Afghan capital, brought together participants from both countries to explore opportunities beyond traditional trade. Siyadat's remarks underscored a evolving partnership that seeks to diversify economic engagement. The event concluded with expectations that the finalized contracts would further solidify economic ties. According to Mehr News, the 5th Abu Hanifa International Expo served as a key venue for these discussions, reflecting ongoing efforts to boost trade and economic collaboration between Iran and Afghanistan.