Zero Tariffs, Expanded Trade Routes: Afghan Minister Calls For Stronger Ties With India

Last Updated:November 24, 2025, 6:19 PM IST

Afghan Minister Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi stressed on the shared historical relationship between the two nations and outlined several key initiatives to boost ties

Afghanistan’s Commerce and Industry Minister Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi on Monday emphasised the importance of strengthening trade ties between Afghanistan and India during his six-day visit to India.

Speaking at a press conference in Delhi, Azizi stressed on the shared historical relationship between the two nations and outlined several key initiatives to boost economic collaboration.

“It’s an immense pleasure and I feel proud that the two great nations, India and Afghanistan, are now working together. As you may know, we have a historical relationship with India,” said Azizi.

“It’s not only in trade but also we have a very good political relationship with them. Now we are exploring the politics, trade, and investment,” he added.

Key Focus On Expanding Trade Routes

Azizi acknowledged the efforts of both India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in facilitating the visit. He further expressed confidence that the trip would pave the way for closer cooperation between the two countries, particularly in trade and economic development.

“We want to expand our bilateral economic relationship between our two nations, a trade and business of approximately one billion dollars,” Azizi explained. “Because the potential and resources exist in both countries, and the intention is also there, and our private sector wants to work effectively with this program and this agreement.”

Azizi also highlighted the discussion around the introduction of zero tariffs between Afghanistan and India, aiming to further enhance trade between the two nations. “We want to increase trade,” he said, stressing that both countries have significant economic potential.

Resolving Past Challenges

Addressing some past challenges, Azizi mentioned that issues such as visa restrictions and air corridor expenses had been resolved. He stressed that these hurdles would no longer hinder the progress of trade, investment, and transit between Afghanistan and India.

The minister also touched on the importance of expanding trade routes, particularly through the Chabahar port. “We have discussed opening the Chabahar route. We have also discussed land and air corridors. Further work is underway on this.,” he said.

Azizi also spoke about the desire to open additional trade routes with India, possibly through neighbouring countries like Iran or Pakistan. He acknowledged that the Wagah border, a key trading point, had been closed due to regional tensions, but reiterated Afghanistan’s commitment to increasing trade with India.

“Despite the challenges, we are determined to reopen and expand trade routes with India,” he added.

Additionally, the Afghan minister expressed satisfaction with the visit and the positive discussions held with Indian officials. “Both countries are ready to provide all the facilities from both sides, so that our trade and transit can progress very well,” he said, expressing optimism about the future of the Afghanistan-India trade relationship.

Siddhant Mishra

Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, …Read More

Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively on crime, … Read More

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