On 24 November 2024, SRSG for Central Asia and Head of UNRCCA, Kaha Imnadze, visited Termez, Uzbekistan, at the border with Afghanistan in order to get acquainted with the Regional UN Logistics Hub as well as the Free Economic Zone “Airitom” and the Education Centre for Afghan Nationals.
The visit was facilitated by the Government of Uzbekistan. Mr. Imnadze was accompanied by Mr. Ismatulla Irgashev, Special Representative of the President of Uzbekistan for Afghanistan, as well as Ms. Sabine Machl, UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan and other UN officials.
The SRSG was briefed in detail about the assistance provided to Afghanistan and the wider region by such UN agencies as UNHCR, WFP and UNFPA and perspectives to increase the humanitarian work using the UN Logistics Hub at the border.
Uzbek partners showed the functioning of the Free Economic Zone, which includes a trade centre, a hospital, and several hotels. The primary task of this Zone is to facilitate trade between Afghan and Uzbek businessmen as well as to offer medical services to Afghans using eased border cross arrangements. Students of the Education Centre share their views on training programmes organized by the Uzbek Government and their future plans.
In his discussions, the SRSG highlighted the importance of initiatives aimed at increased humanitarian assistance and cross-border contacts. He indicated that stronger socioeconomic interaction between Central Asia and Afghanistan provides conditions for robust peace and stability in the region. ///UNRCCA, 25 November 2024