KABUL, Nov 12: A high level Russian delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk arrived in Kabul on Thursday to strengthen economic cooperation and explore new trade and investment opportunities with Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government.
The visit comes as Afghanistan seeks to attract foreign investment, expand international trade and revive its struggling economy amid continued diplomatic isolation. Russia formally recognised the Taliban administration in July 2025, becoming the first and only country to take such a step since the group returned to power in August 2021 following the withdrawal of US-led forces.
Overchuk received an honour guard upon his arrival in the Afghan capital before holding discussions with Prime Minister Mohammad Hasan Akhund and Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Abdul Ghani Baradar.
According to statements shared by the Afghan government on its official social media account, Baradar highlighted the country’s economic potential and encouraged Russian businesses to explore investment opportunities across various sectors.
He pointed to Afghanistan’s strategic geographical position, abundant natural resources and workforce of approximately 24 million people of working age as important advantages for economic development.
Baradar specifically invited Russian companies to participate in mineral extraction, industrial manufacturing, infrastructure development and the establishment of special economic zones.
The discussions also focused on agricultural cooperation, with Baradar expressing interest in increasing Afghan exports of agricultural products to Russia. He further highlighted opportunities for Russian investment in farming and livestock development.
The Russian delegation includes more than 70 business representatives from dozens of companies, reflecting Moscow’s interest in expanding commercial engagement with Afghanistan.
Speaking about the visit, Overchuk said Russia wanted to strengthen trade relations and establish favourable conditions for cooperation between the two countries’ business communities.
According to Russia’s Interfax news agency, he said several companies accompanying the delegation were already operating in Afghanistan, while others were exploring opportunities to enter the market.
Overchuk noted that the participating businesses represented a range of industries, including transportation, logistics, agriculture and pharmaceuticals.
He also highlighted Afghanistan’s demand for Russian fertilisers, adding that discussions could extend to establishing fertiliser manufacturing facilities within Afghanistan.
The Russian deputy prime minister said Moscow was prepared to support Afghanistan’s economic development by encouraging business partnerships, creating employment opportunities and improving living standards.
He emphasised that strengthening commercial ties would help generate jobs, increase household incomes and contribute to economic stability.
For the Taliban administration, closer engagement with Russia offers an opportunity to diversify trade partnerships and attract investment into sectors that require substantial financial and technological support.
For Moscow, expanding economic relations with Kabul could open additional opportunities for Russian businesses in Central and South Asia.
The latest visit underscores the growing importance both sides attach to economic cooperation, particularly in trade, infrastructure, agriculture and natural resource development.