03:11 PM

Afghanistan Says Trade Routes with Pakistan Will Reopen Only with Firm Guarantees The Taliban-led interim Afghan government has reiterated its stance on the reopening of trade and transit routes with Pakistan, saying Islamabad unilaterally and “illegally” shut the crossings as a means of political and economic pressure. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the interim Afghan government, said in a statement the closure inflicted significant harm on communities on both sides. He added that Afghanistan has been able to procure essential goods through several other countries, prompting a reassessment of regional trade policies. Mujahid stated that the trade routes with Pakistan will be reopened only after Kabul receives strong and credible guarantees from Islamabad ensuring that these crossings will not again be used for political leverage, unlawful restrictions, or pressure on civilians. The statement stated the interim Afghan government seeks to expand trade and transit in a way that supports the welfare of both nations and safeguards the rights of traders and the public.

02:17 PM

India Sends Over 63,000 Doses of Vaccines to Afghanistan, Reaffirms Support for Public Health India has delivered 63,734 doses of influenza and meningitis vaccines to Afghanistan as part of its ongoing assistance to strengthen the country’s public health system. Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, said in a statement the shipment reflects New Delhi’s continued commitment to supporting the Afghan people in essential humanitarian sectors. He added that India will remain a reliable partner in efforts aimed at improving healthcare delivery and addressing critical medical needs in Afghanistan.

02:16 PM

Iran, Afghanistan Discuss Expansion of Health and Pharmaceutical Cooperation in Kabul Meeting The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Kabul announced in a statement that Mehdi Pirsalehi, Deputy Minister of Health and head of Iran’s Food and Drug Administration, met with Noor Jalal Jalali, Afghanistan’s Minister of Public Health, to discuss the advancement of bilateral cooperation in the health sector. According to the statement both sides held detailed talks on expanding collaboration in the areas of pharmaceuticals, medical treatment, and health-care equipment. The officials emphasized the need to strengthen existing mechanisms and explore new avenues to improve access to quality medicines and medical technologies. The meeting underscored Iran’s readiness to support Afghanistan in enhancing its health-care infrastructure and developing sustainable medical services through technical assistance and coordinated joint efforts.