KABUL: The Office of Afghanistan’s Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs has given its approval for the transportation of gas and oil from Turkmenistan to Pakistan through Afghanistan, marking a significant step towards enhancing regional economic growth and transit capabilities.
The approved plan, sanctioned by the National Transit Committee, will undergo a trial period to test its feasibility and benefits.
According to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, this project aims to facilitate the smooth flow of gas and oil from Central Asia to South Asia, leading to a substantial boost in national revenue. Additionally, the transportation sector in Afghanistan is expected to experience remarkable development as a result of this initiative.
1/3: The plan sanctioned by the National Transit Committee for the transportation of gas and oil from Turkmenistan to Pakistan, passing through Afghanistan, has received approval from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs for a trial period. pic.twitter.com/S30oyXpIkF
— د ریاست الوزراء اقتصادي معاونیت (@FDPM_AFG) June 24, 2023
2/3: This significant undertaking aims to stimulate economic growth and fortify transit capabilities. The implementation of this project will facilitate the smooth flow of gas and oil from Central Asia to South Asia, leading to a substantial boost in national revenue.
— د ریاست الوزراء اقتصادي معاونیت (@FDPM_AFG) June 24, 2023
3/3: Moreover, the transportation sector of the country will experience remarkable development, giving rise to numerous employment prospects for our fellow countrymen.
— د ریاست الوزراء اقتصادي معاونیت (@FDPM_AFG) June 24, 2023
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC) has also expressed its support for the approved plan, emphasizing the economic enhancements it will bring. The transit of gas and fuel from North to South Asia is predicted to increase national revenue and activate the transport sector, consequently creating job opportunities for Afghan citizens.
Transit Facilities to Boost Afghanistan’s Economic Development
The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has highlighted the importance of further trade facilities with regional countries, stating that transit facilities can significantly contribute to the economic development of Afghanistan. The benefits extend to the transportation, people, and customs offices of Afghanistan, fostering improved connectivity and trade relations.
However, some Afghan traders have pointed out the existing challenges they face in the transit sector, particularly related to tariffs, border crossings, and customs procedures. Efforts are needed to address these issues and facilitate smoother trade operations.
Afghanistan relies on trade routes through Pakistan to export its products to India and also utilizes transit routes through Central Asian nations to reach European countries. The approved gas transit project holds the potential to streamline these trade routes, boost economic activity, and enhance regional cooperation.
