Representatives of the private sector on Monday voiced their strong support to the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations, saying a successful peace process will transform the country’s economy and trade ties with the region and the world.  
 
The representatives of the private sector said the government should consider their role in the country’s development when it comes to peace negotiations.  

The negotiations started on Saturday in Doha. Negotiating teams from the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Taliban will hold their first direct talks this week. The two sides have held two meetings on Sunday and Monday at contact groups level to discuss the agenda, guidelines, and scheduling of their upcoming meetings.  

The private sector in the country has often complained about insecurity as the main barrier for their investment in Afghanistan.  

“If peace comes, then we are ready to increase our investment,” said Sakhi Ahmad Paiman, the deputy head of Afghanistan Chambers Federation.  

The Afghan government has said that more focus will be paid on major economic projects amidst negotiations by the negotiating team of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Doha.  

“The private sector has the ability to overcome unemployment by creating jobs,” said Nazir Kabiri, founding member and executive director of the Biruni Institute.  

“The role of the private sector in peace negotiations is important. Our problems should be addressed,” said Khan Jan Alokozai, a member of Afghanistan Chambers Federation.  

The Afghan business community said they remain optimistic that the negotiations will lead to peace so that they can boost their investment in the country.