Kazakhstan and Afghanistan Begin Strategic Turgundi–Herat Railway Project
Kazakhstan and Afghanistan Sign Railway Construction Protocol
ASTANA – A significant step in regional connectivity took place as Kazakhstan and Afghanistan signed a protocol of intent to initiate the construction of the Turgundi–Herat–Kandahar–Spin Boldak railway line. This agreement was finalized during a visit by a Kazakh delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin.
The protocol, signed between the Kazakh Ministry of Trade and Integration and the Afghan Ministry of Public Works, lays out Kazakhstan’s role in the railway project. As the next step, a formal cooperation agreement will be developed to streamline transport and logistics. This agreement will delineate the construction timeline for the Turgundi–Herat section and detail plans for necessary infrastructure, including a transport and logistics center in Herat.
This railway project is crucial for Kazakhstan as it aims to enhance regional transit connectivity and bolster transportation and logistics links between Central and South Asia. The new railway line will create an essential route for cargo transportation heading southward, ultimately connecting to ports along the Indian Ocean.
Additionally, the document discusses the possibility of establishing a joint railway venture involving Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, and Turkmenistan, which would operate under the jurisdiction of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).
In tandem with railway construction, a fiber optic cable will be installed along the route. This initiative will support the development of digital infrastructure, enhancing communication, train operations, and safety. Moreover, it promises to bring high-speed internet access to communities along the railway.
During his visit, Zhumangarin also held discussions with Afghan Minister of Civil Aviation and Transport Hamidullah Akhundzada regarding various topics. These included the potential for establishing direct flights between the two nations, supplying Kazakhstan’s vehicles and buses to Afghanistan, and opportunities for Afghan students to pursue technical education at Kazakh universities.
The agreements and discussions held during this visit underscore the growing collaboration between Kazakhstan and Afghanistan, paving the way for increased economic partnerships and regional development.
