To enhance bilateral cooperation, Turkmenistan has signed agreements with the Taliban government of Afghanistan focused on joint projects in the energy and transport sectors. The agreements were finalized during a high-level meeting held on August 30, 2024, in Ashgabat, aimed at strengthening ties between the two neighboring countries.

The Afghan delegation, led by Hidayatullah Badri, the Taliban’s Acting Minister of Mines and Petroleum, engaged in discussions with senior Turkmen officials, including Deputy Chairmen of the Cabinet of Ministers and heads of various ministries. Despite being under United Nations sanctions, Badri traveled from Kabul to participate in the talks, underscoring the importance the Taliban places on these bilateral relations.

The newly signed agreements are expected to pave the way for the practical implementation of key projects that could impact both nations. While details of the specific projects were not disclosed, they are anticipated to enhance cooperation in areas critical to the region’s economic development.

Turkmenistan’s Foreign Ministry highlighted the country’s active role in integrating Afghanistan into regional economic processes, emphasizing the importance of these projects for broader economic stability.

However, the Taliban’s continued international engagements, including this visit, have sparked criticism from human rights groups concerned about the implications of such interactions, given the Taliban officials’ inclusion on the UN travel ban list.