Speech of Deputy PM for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, at the Inauguration Ceremony of Several Projects by Azizi Group

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

Respected leaders and officials of the Islamic Emirate, esteemed leadership of Azizi Group, honorable Mujahideen, representatives of the media, distinguished guests, and all attendees:
May peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you!

 

I am pleased to participate in today’s inauguration ceremony of several major charitable and commercial projects, as well as educational institutions, initiated by Azizi Group. This marks a significant and crucial step in the private sector investment in Afghanistan.

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the leadership of Azizi Group and the entire noble nation of Afghanistan on the inauguration of these vital charitable and commercial projects, as well as educational institutions.

It is commendable that Mr. Mirwais Azizi, the Chairman of Azizi Group, is launching initiatives for several large-scale projects and academic institutions on a 350-jerib land in the 8th zone of Kabul, with an investment worth 100 million dollars. This is a highly valuable and praiseworthy contribution to private investment in Afghanistan. I sincerely appreciate his commitment to investing in such significant and strategic projects within his homeland.

Honorable Attendees,
 

It is an undeniable reality of the modern era that private investment is a fundamental driver of economic growth and development. Private sector investment creates job opportunities, enhances public access to essential services, alleviates social challenges, reduces migration caused by economic hardships, and, ultimately, plays a crucial role in the progress and prosperity of the nation.

Azizi Group has embarked on the establishment of several vital projects in Kabul, including a 400-bed specialized and well-equipped cancer treatment hospital, a 200-bed maternity hospital for maternal and child healthcare, standard schools, a nursing institute, a medical university, and an orphan care and training center. Additionally, the group plans to commence work on a 200-megawatt power generation project in the near future. These are great tidings for the people of Afghanistan and represent a significant step forward in private sector investment.

By the will of Allah, these healthcare, educational, and developmental initiatives will provide employment opportunities to many Afghan citizens, contribute to infrastructure development, improve access to essential services, and stimulate small businesses in surrounding areas. Directly and indirectly, these projects will bring substantial benefits to the people.

Once again, I urge all investors to prioritize investment within their own country rather than abroad. It is our collective responsibility to contribute to the prosperity and development of Afghanistan.

At the same time, I call upon the leadership of Azizi Group to ensure that all these projects and establishments are completed in accordance with recognized international standards. I remain hopeful that we will soon participate in the inauguration ceremony marking the successful completion of these projects and deliver this good news to the people.

From this platform, I also call upon the international community to cease imposing economic and political pressures on our nation. Such actions are counterproductive and serve no beneficial purpose. History has proven that sanctions and coercion do not foster constructive engagement; rather, they create further divisions among nations and hinder diplomatic progress. It is imperative that every country is treated as an independent sovereign state and that diplomatic relations and engagements are conducted on the basis of mutual respect and recognized international principles.

Dear fellow citizens,
 

I urge you not to be deceived by the false propaganda and misleading narratives of hostile entities and certain media outlets. By the grace of Allah, you can witness with your own eyes that security is well-established, people's lives and properties are safeguarded, large-scale economic projects are progressing in a structured manner, commercial and diplomatic relations with other countries are strengthening day by day, and we remain hopeful for a bright future.

This system has been built upon discipline and mutual respect, which are core values of the Islamic Emirate and will, by the will of Allah, continue to be upheld. Our collective focus remains on the implementation of Shariah, the development of the country, and the well-being of our nation.

Thank you for your attention.
May peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you!