Russia, Afghanistan Discuss Trade, Energy and Transport Cooperation

DID Press: Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk and Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi discussed prospects for cooperation in trade, energy, investment and strengthening transport connectivity, including plans to develop the International North–South Transport Corridor.

According to the Russian government, bilateral trade between Russia and Afghanistan increased 2.5-fold in the first seven months of 2026 compared with the same period last year. The two sides agreed to continue government-level talks to implement projects of mutual interest and expand contacts between businesses and entrepreneurs in both countries.

The discussions also focused on strengthening transport and transit links. The meeting comes amid growing economic engagement between Moscow and Kabul, with Russia continuing to emphasize trade, energy and regional connectivity in its relations with Afghanistan.

Muttaqi thanked Russia for supporting Afghanistan’s economic and social development, according to the Russian government.

The meeting followed the eighth Moscow Format consultations on Afghanistan in Moscow, where Muttaqi also met separately with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The two officials discussed bilateral, economic and trade cooperation, regional issues and continued political consultations.