![Russia, Afghanistan discuss railway development, Salang tunnel repair, and trade to enhance regional connectivity. [Image via Tolo News]](http://pkafgyouthforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/image-1_61.webp)
During a meeting with the acting minister of public works, the Russian ambassador discussed the expansion of economic and trade cooperation between Kabul and Moscow.
Key topics of discussion included the repair of the Salang Highway tunnel, the construction of a new tunnel along the same route, and cooperation in developing Afghanistan’s railway network.
Mohammad Ashraf Haqshenas, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, stated: “In this meeting, the two sides held comprehensive discussions on the repair and reconstruction of the Salang tunnel, the modernization of rail lines, and the procurement of necessary equipment and railway components from Russia.”
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Economic analysts regard Russia’s role in rebuilding Afghanistan’s infrastructure—particularly in highway and railway development—as highly significant.
Lal Zazai, an economic affairs expert, said: “Look at our neighboring countries—they’re interconnected through rail networks, while only Afghanistan faces challenges in this area. If investments are made in rail infrastructure, Afghanistan’s current geopolitical position could allow it to play a pivotal role between Central and South Asia.”
The Ministry of Public Works also reported that in the past week, over 76,000 metric tons of export, import, and transit goods were transported via the Hairatan, Khaf-Herat, Torghundi, and Aqina railway lines.
This news is sourced from [Tolo News] and is for informational purposes only.
