Afghan Chamber Holds Second Think Tank Session on Economic Development
The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment has held the second session of its “Think Tank” with the aim of bringing together academic, professional, and economic perspectives to explore strategies for developing Afghanistan’s economy and shaping its future.
Officials from the Chamber said the purpose of the meeting was not merely to exchange views, but to develop a comprehensive economic strategy that can be used in the country’s economic policymaking.
The Chamber’s president said Afghanistan will continue to face serious challenges unless it achieves economic self-sufficiency, reduces poverty, creates employment opportunities, and increases domestic production.
Sayed Karim Hashemi, President of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said: “No doubt, no country has achieved prosperity solely through its natural resources and capacities. Rather, it is sound thinking, careful planning, good governance, and the effective use of national resources that shape the future of nations.”
Participants at the meeting also stressed that developing a shared economic strategy could help promote investment, boost domestic production, increase exports, and make better use of the country’s economic potential.
They emphasized the need to formulate practical and evidence-based solutions to strengthen Afghanistan’s economy.
Atiqullah Rahimi, a university professor, said: “Our proposal is to transform this forum into a permanent and well-structured institution so that, over time, it can develop and pursue practical and scientific solutions at both the local and national levels.”
Economic analyst Janat Fahim Chakari added: “To achieve economic growth, the country must focus and plan around five key strategies: industry, trade, finance, energy, and the banking sector.”
According to the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, the proposals and conclusions of the meeting will be compiled into a strategic document and submitted to the relevant authorities to facilitate the implementation of the recommended economic measures.
