The Speech of Deputy PM for Economic Affairs Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund at the Inauguration Ceremony of Arghandi Transportation Terminal in Kabul:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate

Respected leadership of the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, esteemed leaders and officials from various government institutions, honorable elders, Mujahideen, representatives of the media, and distinguished guests;
Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh!

May Allah Almighty bless you all with health and well-being.

Today is indeed a joyous day as we take an important step in the expansion of Afghanistan’s transport infrastructure by inaugurating the project for the construction of a standard transport terminal in Arghandi, Paghman district of Kabul province. On this occasion, I sincerely congratulate all fellow countrymen on the commencement of this vital national project.

Dear Compatriots!

It is abundantly clear that the construction and expansion of standard transportation infrastructure is a critical and foundational step for a country’s economic growth, development, and for enhancing domestic and regional connectivity.
However, it is with great regret that I must mention that due to decades of war, insecurity, and corruption, Afghanistan’s transport infrastructure has not undergone the necessary development. On the contrary, existing infrastructure has deteriorated due to poor quality. Public properties have been usurped by individuals, and the right-of-way for main roads and highways has been significantly reduced.
Therefore, investment in transportation and communication infrastructure, the reclamation of usurped public properties, the identification and restoration of road right-of-way, are among the core national objectives of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

Honorable Attendees!
In continuation of efforts to develop and expand transport infrastructure, today we are inaugurating the commencement of construction work on an important transport terminal in Arghandi, Paghman district of Kabul province. The construction of this terminal will cost approximately 1.285 billion Afghanis, funded through Afghanistan’s National Development Budget.
The project is being implemented by Herirud Construction Company and will include 42 important facilities, expected to be completed and operational within two years.
With the construction of this significant transport terminal, transport facilities will increase, operations related to movement and logistics will improve in speed and organization, associated costs will be reduced, direct and indirect employment opportunities will be created for many citizens, and it will meaningfully contribute to easing congestion and traffic issues.

As I mentioned earlier, you are witnessing firsthand that the development and expansion of transport infrastructure is rapidly progressing across the country. Many roads and highways have been reclaimed from illegal occupation by individuals of the previous administration. We have identified original right-of-way areas according to plan, and the expansion and development of roads is continuing swiftly and in accordance with standards.

Dear Citizens!
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, considering the needs and resources of the present time, is not only firmly committed to the development and expansion of transport infrastructure but also continues its efforts toward achieving other strategic foundational goals.

In conclusion, I strongly urge the officials of the implementing company of this national project to pay serious attention to the quality of the work, and to strictly observe all standards, keeping in mind the principle of long-term utility.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all citizens on the launch of this significant project. I assure you that the Islamic Emirate will continue its efforts in building the country's economic infrastructure and will address the core issues of our dear people in a timely manner, Insha’Allah.

Wassalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.