Iran-Afghanistan economic ...
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Breaking through sanctions, strengthening foundations
To seriously address Western sanctions and foster economic relations, infrastructure development is vital. Joint efforts in enhancing transportation and communication infrastructure will improve Afghanistan’s economic and trade status, while Iranian engineering expertise can fulfill Afghanistan’s needs without reliance on the West. This could involve the development of railways, roads, and communication systems.
In the current critical period, Afghanistan’s rulers need to consider regional interests, particularly those of their neighbors. History has shown that the policies of extraterritorial actors in Afghanistan have led to instability and unrest, ultimately resulting in conflict and hindering the country’s progress. Countries with high political risk struggle to attract foreign investment, making their paths to economic development challenging.
Focusing on economic diplomacy can play a significant role in improving the economic situation and effectively countering the sanctions faced by both Iran and Afghanistan. By identifying the existing opportunities and challenges in their economic relations, the groundwork for paving the way for Afghanistan’s development through the Islamic Republic of Iran is increasingly being laid. As a regional power with substantial energy reserves and advanced scientific knowledge in engineering and modern sciences, Iran is a crucial neighbor for Afghanistan. Notably, Iran’s policies towards Afghanistan consistently aim to secure the interests of the Afghan people, showing a genuine intent to support developments in the country.
It is also vital for Afghan leaders to understand their neighbors’ interests. For example, the issue of Iran’s water rights from the Helmand River, a contentious topic in bilateral relations, can be addressed within this framework. Increased trade and commercial cooperation, joint investments, and scientific and technological collaborations can serve as incentives for Afghanistan’s development, requiring proper interactions and a realistic understanding of existing realities by Afghanistan’s leaders.