Afghanistan's Plan to Construct a Dam on the Kunar River

Afghanistan has announced its intention to build a dam on the Kunar River, which is expected to limit water flow into Pakistan. This decision highlights Kabul's mistrust towards Islamabad.

• The order to hasten the dam's construction was given by Afghanistan's supreme leader, Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada.
• This announcement follows a violent border conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan and comes shortly after a ceasefire mediated by Qatar.

Details of the Project

• The Afghan Ministry of Water and Energy has been directed to begin construction immediately and finalize contracts with domestic firms.
• The Kunar River, originating from the Hindu Kush mountains, flows into Pakistan where it is known as the Chitral River.

Regional Diplomacy and Cooperation

• Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's visit to India emphasized the importance of sustainable water management.
• India and Afghanistan agreed to collaborate on hydroelectric projects to address Afghanistan's energy needs and support agricultural development.
• India has previously assisted in constructing the India-Afghanistan Friendship Dam, also known as the Salma Dam, in Herat.

Relations with Tajikistan

• The Taliban is working to improve relations with Tajikistan after the fall of the Abdul Ghani government in 2021.
• A Taliban delegation visited Tajikistan to discuss mutual security concerns, aiming to prevent their territories from being used against each other.
• Tajikistan, historically cautious of the Taliban, has adjusted its stance following Russia's recognition of the Taliban regime and outreach from other Central Asian states.