Speech by the Deputy PM for Economic Affairs at the Inauguration Ceremony of the Yatim Taq Cement Plant Construction Works
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Honorable Governor of Jawzjan Province, Honorable Deputy PM for Administrative Affairs, Head of the Construction Company 77, representatives of the media, respected elders, distinguished guests, and all respected attendees:
Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh!
It is a great pleasure to join you today in Jawzjan Province at the ceremony marking the commencement of practical works for the large and significant Yatim Taq Cement Project. First and foremost, I extend my congratulations to the entire people of Afghanistan on the launch of this important project.
Respected participants!
For the country’s economic growth and the achievement of long-term economic objectives, it is essential that we gradually take accelerated steps from a consumption-based economy toward a production-based economy; strengthen domestic industry; and formulate and implement appropriate policies to support local production. This is not merely a desire or an aspiration—it is a serious necessity, and addressing it is considered a major responsibility.
In continuation of fulfilling this fundamental responsibility, we are gathered here today in Jawzjan Province for the inauguration of the practical works of this important cement production project.
For the completion of this project, the Construction Company 77 will invest a total of USD 160 million. The plant will produce 3,000 tons of cement per day and will create employment opportunities for 5,000 people, both directly and indirectly. The project is expected to be completed within approximately two years and handed over for operation.
Dear compatriots!
This project will play a significant role in strengthening domestic industry, reducing reliance on imports, and contributing to the country’s economic growth. It will prevent the outflow of foreign currency, ensure effective utilization of raw materials within the country, generate numerous employment opportunities, and support the development of construction activities and infrastructure.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is fully focused on strengthening domestic industry, and we are working day and night to create conditions for processing raw materials inside the country instead of exporting them, while managing national resources in line with the principle of sustainable development.
Respected participants!
Narrowing the global and regional political and economic space, implementing policies of exclusion at the international level, and prolonging sanctions cannot in any way resolve the challenges of global politics and the global economy. On the contrary, such policies generate threats and reduce opportunities for regional and international cooperation.
Therefore, we call on the world to strengthen engagement with Afghanistan within the framework of the formal economy and to take advantage of the unprecedented security, political stability, and potential capacity.
In conclusion, I emphasize that all responsible parties involved in this important national project must carry out their duties with full attention and in accordance with accepted standards, while all relevant authorities and institutions should facilitate and expedite its implementation.
Wa Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.