HERAT (Ariana News): A major step toward renewable energy development was taken in Afghanistan as Turkish construction firm 77 Insaat broke ground on a 200-megawatt wind power project in Herat province—the first Turkish-led initiative of its kind in the country.
The initial phase of the project, valued at $65 million, will generate 43.2 megawatts of electricity.
Once completed, the full project is expected to significantly boost Afghanistan’s clean energy capacity and reduce its reliance on imported electricity.
A foundation-laying ceremony was held in Kabul, attended by key figures from Afghanistan’s interim government, including Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and several cabinet ministers.
Türkiye’s Consul General in Herat, Sinan Ilhan, and Chairman of 77 Insaat, Suleyman Ciliv, were also present, underscoring the diplomatic and economic significance of the project.
Speaking at the event, Emre Unal, Türkiye’s Commercial Counselor in Kabul, noted that Turkish companies have invested nearly $7 billion in Afghanistan across infrastructure, construction, and other critical sectors.
He said Turkish firms are committed to supporting both Afghanistan’s immediate development needs and its long-term economic resilience.
“Projects developed by our companies are not only vital for today but are laying the groundwork for Afghanistan’s future,” Unal told Anadolu Agency.
He emphasized that Turkish products and engineering services are trusted in Afghanistan, giving Türkiye a competitive edge in expanding trade and investment.
Unal also highlighted several advantages for foreign investors in Afghanistan, including low startup costs, customs duty exemptions, and a young, cost-effective labor force.
Türkiye is looking to deepen its collaboration with Afghanistan, especially in sectors such as renewable energy, mining, healthcare, agriculture, and livestock. Unal confirmed that Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade is actively working to increase bilateral economic cooperation, particularly as Afghanistan seeks to unlock its untapped natural resource potential.
