Explored opportunities to support sustained peace in Afghanistan, including through stronger regional economic integration
WASHINGTON – U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Chief Executive Officer Adam Boehler and U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad today concluded a regional visit to Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and Qatar. The delegation explored opportunities to support peace and economic recovery in Afghanistan, including by strengthening its economic ties with neighboring countries and promoting economic growth across the region
“It was an honor joining Ambassador Khalilzad to advance partnerships and investments that can serve as stabilizing forces,” said Boehler. “DFC is actively collaborating with its State Department colleagues and its South and Central Asian counterparts to expand economic opportunity throughout this critical region. Peace and prosperity are mutually supportive.”
“On this trip, we were able to delve into the real economic possibilities peace in Afghanistan holds,” said Khalilzad. “DFC CEO Boehler underscored the U.S. commitment to invest alongside willing partners in Afghan peace, regional integration, and economic growth and development.”
Boehler and Khalilzad met with senior government officials including Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister of Investments and Foreign Trade Sardor Umurzakov, Pakistani Advisor for Commerce, Textile, and Investment Abdul Razak Dawood and Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, and Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. They also conducted virtual meetings with Afghan officials throughout the trip as the country has been particularly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
During these meetings, Boehler reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to expanding regional economic cooperation to advance shared goals. He underscored the strong correlation between economic growth and stability, highlighting DFC’s efforts to support investments that contribute to lasting regional peace and prosperity as well as help the region weather the challenges of COVID-19.
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U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is America’s development bank. DFC partners with the private sector to finance solutions to the most critical challenges facing the developing world today. We invest across sectors including energy, healthcare, critical infrastructure, and technology. DFC also provides financing for small businesses and women entrepreneurs in order to create jobs in emerging markets. DFC investments adhere to high standards and respect the environment, human rights, and worker rights.