Mashhad, Iran — Afghanistan’s Consul General in Mashhad, Noor Mohammad Motawakel, met with Turkmenistan’s Consul General, Govanch Murad Oz Mammadovich Atayev, in a bilateral diplomatic meeting aimed at strengthening ties between the two neighboring countries.
During the discussions, both sides highlighted the longstanding friendly relations between Afghanistan and Turkmenistan and emphasized the importance of expanding economic cooperation, particularly in the infrastructure sector, including roads, energy projects, and cross-border trade initiatives. Officials expressed optimism that closer collaboration could create new opportunities for investment and development, benefiting citizens on both sides of the border.
Motawakel underlined Afghanistan’s commitment to regional partnerships and noted that infrastructure development is key to fostering stability and economic growth in the region. Atayev echoed the sentiment, stressing Turkmenistan’s willingness to support joint projects and strengthen cross-border connectivity.
While the meeting focused on positive cooperation, analysts note that the current Taliban government remains unrecognized by the international community and continues to face criticism for human rights violations, suppression of women’s rights, and lack of effective governance. Observers warn that without broader political legitimacy, Afghanistan’s international partnerships risk being limited and conditional, and economic agreements could be affected by the ongoing uncertainties under the Taliban regime.
