The interim government of Afghanistan has granted Uzbek companies licenses for geological exploration and hydrocarbon extraction, as reported by Uzbekistan’s Minister of Energy, Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov.

On September 14, the development of the Tuti-Maidan gas field officially began, with the project led by the Uzbek company Eriell KAM under a 25-year contract, according to Azatlyk.  The launch ceremony was attended by the head of Uzbekneftegaz and the first deputy minister of energy.

Mirzamakhmudov emphasized that this project is the first step in bilateral cooperation, with plans to expand operations and explore new areas in the future.  "This initiative will benefit the economies of both countries," he noted.

The minister also highlighted that the stability and infrastructure development in Afghanistan open up new transit opportunities for Uzbekistan, including access to the global ocean, which is critical for regional economic growth.  "If peace and economic development are achieved, this region will become a key transit route for us, unlocking new opportunities for economic growth and logistics," he added.

Mirzamakhmudov also shared comments from Afghanistan's acting Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, who, during a meeting, stated that "in the eyes and actions of the President of Uzbekistan, there is a clear love for the Afghan people," according to kun.uz.

In early September, joint energy projects worth $250 million were launched, including the construction of power transmission lines and substations, such as the 500 kV "Surkhan — Pul-i-Khumri" and facilities in Nangarhar and Kabul.  The completion of the work is scheduled for April 1, 2027.