Kazakhstan and Afghanistan signed a protocol of intent to begin work on the Turgundi–Herat–Kandahar–Spin Boldak railway line, marking a major milestone in regional transport cooperation. The agreement was reached during the visit of Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin to Afghanistan.
The protocol, signed between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Trade and Integration and Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Works, secures Kazakhstan’s commitment to participate in the railway project, starting with the Turgundi–Herat section. This agreement is set to pave the way for a broader cooperation framework in transport and logistics between the two nations.
A key element of the initiative is the development of infrastructure in Herat, including a transport and logistics center that will support trade and cargo operations. The new railway is expected to become a critical component of a future transnational corridor that will connect Central Asia with South Asia and ultimately provide Kazakhstan access to Indian Ocean ports.
The protocol also envisions the establishment of a joint venture between the railway authorities of Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan, which will operate under the jurisdiction of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).
In addition to the railway, the project includes the installation of a fiber-optic cable along the route. This will enhance digital infrastructure, improve train control and safety, and provide opportunities to connect nearby communities to high-speed internet.
During his visit, Zhumangarin also met with Afghanistan’s Minister of Civil Aviation and Transport, Hamidullah Akhundzada. The two officials discussed opening direct flights between the countries, the supply of Kazakhstani-manufactured vehicles to Afghanistan, and expanding educational exchanges, particularly for Afghan students pursuing technical degrees at Kazakh universities.
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