A joint meeting titled the Afghan-Uzbek Business Forum was held in Dubai, and was initiated by the Afghan Business Council in the United Arab Emirates.

During the forum, discussions focused on joint investment opportunities, resolving challenges related to business visas, and Uzbekistan's decision to eliminate customs tariffs on Afghan goods.

Haji Obaidullah Sader Khail, head of the Afghan Business Council in the UAE, stated that the Uzbek side committed to exempting Afghan produce—both dried and fresh fruits—from tariffs.

Sader Khail said: “As you know, Uzbekistan announced last week that it will reduce customs duties by 40% on food items exported from Uzbekistan to Afghanistan. They also declared that Afghans residing in the UAE with valid residency and visa can travel to Uzbekistan visa-free for up to one month.”

Meanwhile, the military attaché of the Islamic Emirate’s embassy in Abu Dhabi assured Uzbekistan of expanding cooperation in various areas.

Mahbubur Rahman, military attaché of the Islamic Emirate in Abu Dhabi, said: “The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has assured them that, God willing, it is ready to cooperate in any sector and will provide all necessary facilities.”

Abdul Ghafar Nezami, an economic affairs expert, stated: “Afghanistan is a good consumer market for Uzbekistan, while Uzbekistan serves as a suitable destination for Afghanistan’s agricultural products, handicrafts, industrial goods, dried and wild fruits.”

This forum was held shortly after a high-level delegation from the Islamic Emirate, led by the acting minister of agriculture, irrigation and livestock, visited Uzbekistan to strengthen economic and trade relations.