Doha, Qatar – Discussions regarding Afghanistan and strengthened bilateral ties were central to a meeting between Qatari and Uzbek officials on Saturday, held during the 23rd Doha Forum 2025. Dr. Majed Mohammed Al Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, met with Dr. Ismatulla Irgashev, Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Afghanistan. The meeting underscored Qatar’s continued role as a key mediator in regional affairs.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Doha Forum, a significant international platform for dialogue on global challenges. Both parties expressed a commitment to fostering closer cooperation, particularly concerning the ongoing situation in Afghanistan and its impact on regional stability. The discussions also covered a range of other issues of mutual concern, according to a statement released by the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Qatar and Uzbekistan Focus on Afghanistan Cooperation
The primary focus of the talks was reportedly on enhancing collaboration related to Afghanistan. Uzbekistan shares a border with Afghanistan and has a vested interest in its stability, while Qatar has maintained consistent engagement with various Afghan stakeholders, including the Taliban, since 2021. This engagement has been largely focused on humanitarian aid and facilitating dialogue.
Regional Stability Concerns
The situation in Afghanistan remains a significant concern for regional and international actors. The Taliban’s takeover in August 2021 led to a humanitarian crisis and raised concerns about the resurgence of terrorist groups. Qatar and Uzbekistan both recognize the importance of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan to prevent further regional instability and address the humanitarian needs of the Afghan people.
Bilateral Relations Beyond Afghanistan
While Afghanistan was a key topic, the meeting also addressed broader bilateral relations between Qatar and Uzbekistan. Economic cooperation, particularly in the energy sector, has been growing between the two nations in recent years. Qatar has expressed interest in investing in Uzbekistan’s infrastructure and energy projects, and the two countries are exploring opportunities for increased trade and investment.
Additionally, discussions likely touched upon cultural exchange programs and collaboration in education. Uzbekistan has been undertaking reforms to modernize its economy and attract foreign investment, and Qatar’s experience in these areas could be valuable. The two countries signed several agreements in 2023 aimed at boosting economic ties, and this meeting appears to be a continuation of that momentum.
Qatar’s mediation efforts in Afghanistan have been closely watched by the international community. The country has played a crucial role in facilitating the evacuation of foreign nationals and Afghan citizens following the Taliban’s takeover. It has also provided significant humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, working through international organizations to deliver aid to those in need. This commitment to humanitarian diplomacy differentiates Qatar’s approach.
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan has been actively pursuing a policy of engagement with the Taliban, seeking to establish pragmatic relations to ensure security and economic cooperation. This approach reflects Uzbekistan’s geographical proximity and its desire to prevent the spillover of instability from Afghanistan. The country has also been involved in providing humanitarian aid and facilitating trade routes through Afghanistan.
The meeting between Dr. Al Ansari and Dr. Irgashev signals a continued commitment from both Qatar and Uzbekistan to address the challenges posed by the situation in Afghanistan. It also highlights the growing importance of regional cooperation in finding sustainable solutions. Further details regarding specific agreements or initiatives discussed during the meeting have not been publicly released.
Looking ahead, it is expected that both countries will continue to coordinate their efforts on Afghanistan through diplomatic channels. The next major opportunity for dialogue will likely be at future regional conferences and bilateral meetings. The international community will be watching to see how these collaborations translate into concrete actions that can improve the lives of the Afghan people and contribute to long-term stability in the region. The evolving security landscape in Afghanistan will undoubtedly remain a central focus of these discussions.
The development of Qatar-Uzbekistan trade relations is also a key factor in the strengthening of ties.
Continued US foreign policy towards Afghanistan will also influence the regional dynamics.