3rd meeting of communication mechanisms for humanitarian aid and economic reconstruction between IEA-MoFA and Chinese side convened

The third meeting of the communication mechanisms for humanitarian aid and economic reconstruction, led by the relevant political branches of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the People’s Republic of China, took place today in Beijing, said Abdul Qahar Balkhi the spokesman of the foreign ministry.

Alongside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Mines and Petroleum, Refugees and Returnees, and the Ministry of Natural Disasters were present from the Afghan side.

 

On the Chinese side, representatives from the country’s commerce, natural resources, China International Development Agency, and international cooperation agencies participated in the meeting. Where discussions on humanitarian aid mechanism and China’s assistance in natural disasters, resettlement of forcibly returned refugees, and healthcare werr held.

The Afghan delegation shared suggestions and advice with the relevant Chinese counterparts to enhance the effectiveness of China’s aid.

 

The Chinese side pledged to organize humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, taking into account the needs and priorities expressed by the Afghan side. They also committed to considering the proposals put forth by Afghanistan regarding China’s aid of 100 million yuan for the resettlement of forcibly returned refugees.

The Red Cross Society of China pledged to facilitate medical treatment for Afghan children with heart diseases in China. Additionally, the meeting extensively covered economic reconstruction mechanisms for Afghanistan, including discussions on increasing bilateral trade, providing more export opportunities for Afghan goods to China, capacity building, and Chinese cooperation in mining and modern trade in Afghanistan.

Both sides welcomed the opening of avenues for pomegranate exports following the successful export of pine nuts from Afghanistan to China.

 

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the latest developments in increasing oil extraction levels in Afghanistan and commencing the extraction of the Logar Miss Aynak mine. Emphasis was placed on the need for plans to expedite these projects.

 

The Afghan side expressed appreciation for China’s support in capacity building through training programs for civil servants in various ministries and agencies of the Afghan government. The Chinese side promised to expand scholarships for Afghan students according to Afghanistan’s needs.

 

Additionally, the meeting discussed the significance and potential benefits of the Wakhan Corridor, exploring the possibilities of opening this corridor for enhanced regional connectivity.