Russia and Uzbekistan are advancing efforts to prepare a feasibility study for the Trans-Afghan Railway project. This announcement was made by Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov during the 25th meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Cooperation between the two countries, TASS reports.
Manturov emphasized the importance of developing international transport corridors, including routes through the Caspian Sea. He noted that the Trans-Afghan Railway is a priority in enhancing regional connectivity and creating new economic opportunities.
"We are paying special attention to the development of promising international transport corridors, including using new routes through the Caspian Sea. Joint work is underway to prepare a feasibility study for the construction of the Trans-Afghan Railway," he said.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk previously highlighted the importance of the railway project for improving connectivity across Central Asia and Eurasia. He stated that the project envisions potential routes passing through Afghanistan.
Background and Progress
In February 2021, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan signed a roadmap for constructing the Termez-Mazar-i-Sharif-Kabul-Peshawar railway. The project’s estimated cost is approximately $5bn. Once completed, the railway is expected to handle a throughput of 20mn tons of cargo annually, connecting countries across Europe, Russia, Central Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
The project aims to enhance trade and transport links between regions, supporting economic integration. Design work for the railway is currently underway as stakeholders work on finalizing the details.
Earlier Daryo reported that Abdul Salam Hanafi, Afghanistan's Administrative Deputy Prime Minister, visited Uzbekistan to discuss cooperation with Uzbek officials, including Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev. The discussions emphasized the Trans-Afghan Railway project as a critical initiative for enhancing connectivity and regional economic growth.
Jamshid Khodjaev highlighted Uzbekistan's commitment to facilitating investments in Afghanistan, particularly in mining, and stressed the railway's potential to boost economic ties. Afghan Deputy Spokesman Hamdullah Fitrat noted the project's significance for expanding trade and transit in the region.
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