Following agreements to send Afghan workers to Qatar, Iran, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, efforts are now underway to send Afghan laborers to Russia.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs says discussions with Russian officials are ongoing, and once an agreement is reached, young, skilled, and professional Afghan workers will be sent to the country.
Spokesperson Samiullah Ebrahimi stated:
“Alongside Qatar, we are in contact with labor authorities in Russia, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Oman. Significant progress has already been made with the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the draft agreement on sending workers has been shared. Opinions have been exchanged, and we hope to reach a final understanding soon.”
According to Ebrahimi, in addition to sending labor abroad, the government is also working to create job opportunities for Afghans in both the public and private sectors within the country.
Meanwhile, citizens have welcomed the government’s efforts to send workers to Russia, saying it will employ more young people and reduce unemployment.
Kabul resident Reza Mohammad said:
“There are no jobs here. With the Torkham border closed, opportunities have decreased even further. We go to the market, but no work is found, and we return empty-handed.”
Another resident, Samiullah, added:
“Most of our youth are unemployed. At the same time, migrants are returning from Pakistan and Iran, further slowing the labor market. We hope the government will increase efforts to provide jobs abroad. If young people can work in Russia and other countries, it will greatly improve people’s economic situation.”
Analysts say sending Afghan workers abroad benefits not only citizens but also the government, as it strengthens international relations.
Economic analyst Mohammadyounus Zadran said:
“Sending skilled Afghan youth abroad will help reduce unemployment. In my view, those skilled youth who are currently jobless and actively seeking work should be prioritized for such programs.”
Previously, Afghanistan’s ambassador to Russia told Moscow Times that his country is ready to send skilled labor to meet Russia’s workforce needs.
