KABUL: Businesses from Afghanistan and Uzbekistan have signed 18 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) worth approximately 150 million US dollars, marking a significant step towards strengthening economic relations between the two neighbouring countries.

The agreements are expected to create new opportunities for trade, investment and business cooperation across several economic sectors.

The development reflects growing efforts by both countries to expand commercial partnerships and encourage greater participation from private-sector companies.

Afghanistan and Uzbekistan share important regional trade interests, particularly in transportation, energy, agriculture and industrial development. Stronger economic cooperation could help businesses in both countries access new markets and establish long-term commercial relationships.

The agreements are also expected to support cross-border business activities and improve economic connectivity in Central Asia and the wider region.

For Afghanistan, expanding trade partnerships could provide additional opportunities for investment, business development and employment generation. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, could benefit from increased commercial engagement and access to new regional markets.

The signing of the 18 agreements demonstrates the willingness of companies from both countries to explore new areas of cooperation and strengthen their economic relationship.

However, the actual impact of these agreements will depend on their implementation, financing arrangements and the ability of participating companies to translate commitments into operational projects.

The latest development represents a positive move towards deeper economic engagement between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan.