India, Afghanistan Discuss Steps to Boost Bilateral Trade and Economic Ties

India and Afghanistan held a virtual meeting of their Joint Working Group on Trade to discuss ways to expand bilateral trade and strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting, held on Tuesday, focused on several areas, including trade facilitation, customs cooperation, visa arrangements for Afghan traders, banking and financial services, pharmaceutical and agricultural trade, energy cooperation, investment promotion, tariff concessions, cargo connectivity and port-related matters.

Both sides agreed to enhance institutional coordination and take follow-up measures in the areas discussed. The proposed steps include greater cooperation in customs and data sharing, improved regulatory coordination in the pharmaceutical and agriculture sectors, stronger trade connectivity, and efforts to encourage investment and business-to-business partnerships.

India and Afghanistan reaffirmed their commitment to deepening trade, commerce and investment relations. Officials from commerce, industry, customs, regulatory bodies and diplomatic missions of both countries participated in the virtual meeting.