Afghanistan eyes purchase of oil, gas from Russia

KABUL (Pajhwok): The caretaker government in energy-deficient Afghanistan has evinced an interest in purchasing gas and oil from Russia.

At the same time, the new Afghan rulers intend to continue work on the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project.

In an interview, the Taliban-appointed charge d'affaires in Moscow said his country was serious about developing an energy partnership with Russia.

Jamal Nasir Garwal told RIA Novosti: "Yes, we are negotiating in the sphere of business and finance. We very much want to develop economic cooperation with Russia so that there is progress in relations.

“As for specific areas, we are interested in purchasing fuel and gas. These are the most important areas at the moment, what our country needs in the first place," the diplomat added.

Garwal observed his country expected on Russia to construct buildings, roads and other necessary facilities in Afghanistan.

With the Ministries of Trade of Russia and Afghanistan in talks, he reiterated both sides were determined to sign specific agreements soon.

He also indicated Afghanistan’s interest in exporting dried fruits and other agricultural products to Russia.

The Taliban leadership remained keen on implementing the 1814-kilometre TAPI project. About a 774-km part of the pipeline passes through Afghanistan.

PAN Monitor/mud