Uzbekistan reopens border with Afghanistan for 1st time since 2021

By Kanyshai Butun

ISTANBUL (AA) - Uzbekistan has reopened its border with Afghanistan for the first time since 2021, the country’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced on Tuesday.

Officials said passenger movement has resumed via the Termez-Hairatan bridge, which links southern Uzbekistan with northern Afghanistan.

“Now passengers can travel directly and safely between the two countries,” authorities said, adding that the visa requirement remains in force.

Officials said the reopening of the border is expected to boost exports to Afghanistan, which have been rising in recent years, and could reach $2.5 billion by 2026.

Uzbekistan closed its border with Afghanistan in June 2021 due to what officials described as a worsening coronavirus epidemiological situation in the neighboring country.

At the same time, the issuance of tourist visas to Afghan citizens was suspended, and only diplomats, international freight drivers, and citizens returning home were allowed to cross.