Bangladeshi Islamic leaders recently met with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Afghanistan’s Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, in a high-level meeting held in Kabul on November 19. Indian representatives were also present during the discussions, according to a report by Afghanistan’s TOLO News on Thursday, November 21.
The meeting focused on strengthening madrasa education, establishing new educational institutions, reforming the curriculum, initiating infrastructure projects, and boosting Afghanistan’s business and industrial sectors, said Hamdullah Fitrat, Deputy Spokesman for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.
During the discussions, Minister Baradar emphasized the Afghan government’s efforts to improve the country’s economy. “The Islamic Emirate has undertaken significant economic projects and expanded trade with neighboring countries and the world,” he said. Baradar also highlighted progress in Afghanistan’s industrial sector and the strides made toward economic self-reliance. However, he noted that the freezing of Afghanistan’s financial assets globally remains a major obstacle to the nation’s economic development.
Experts have suggested that such meetings can foster Afghanistan’s economic ties with other nations. University Professor Mohammad Omid Jahanzada told TOLO News: “Efforts like these are crucial for building political, economic, cultural, and social relationships with other countries. We hope Bangladesh and India will take necessary steps to strengthen ties with Afghanistan.”
This meeting underscores Afghanistan’s intent to enhance regional cooperation and leverage relationships with countries like Bangladesh and India for economic growth and development.