In a recent international conference on economic development held in Kabul, Farooq Azam, an adviser to the Taliban's Ministry of Water and Energy, highlighted Afghanistan's abundant water resources as a strategic asset. Azam expressed the view that effective management of these resources could lead neighboring countries to recognize the nation's significance in the region.
During his address, Azam advocated for a progressive approach by suggesting that private companies be granted the opportunity to engage in water management initiatives. This proposal aimed to harness the expertise and innovation of the private sector in efficiently utilizing and preserving Afghanistan's water wealth. Azam's remarks underscore the potential for Afghanistan to emerge as a pivotal player in the domain of water resources, fostering cooperation and recognition from its neighbors.
“Afghanistan has so many water resources that if we manage them properly, neighboring countries will feel that they need us,” he said at the conference.
In May, a conflict arose between the Taliban and Iran as Afghanistan did not supply the required amount of water from the Helmand river to Iran, causing severe water shortages. This led to military clashes between the two countries.
Additionally, the Taliban’s ongoing construction of the Qoshtepa canal in the Balkh part of the Amu Darya, potentially causing water scarcity in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, raises further concerns. Climate change, combined with the new canal construction, could lead to Uzbekistan losing up to 25% of its water supply.
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