BP Verma Steel Minister met Afghan President in Kabul

 Union Minister of Steel, Shri Beni Prasad Verma met the President of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Shri Hamid Karzai on 10th April, 2012. This was the first ever visit of an Indian Economic Minister to Afghanistan. They discussed various aspects of bilateral cooperation and mutual development between the two countries. Shri Karzai stressed on the need for better participation of Indian private and public sector companies in various mining projects in Afghanistan. A Strategic Partnership Agreement was signed between the two countries in the presence of the Prime Minister of India during the visit of the President of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Shri Hamid Karzai to India in October 2011. This was a step towards reinforcing cooperation in various sectors with special focus on mineral exploration and mining.

The Union Minister of Steel, Shri Beni Prasad Verma also met the Vice President of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Shri Abdul Karim Khalili on the same day. During which the latter stressed on expediting implementation of projects.

Earlier on 9th, April, 2012, a meeting took place between the Minister of Steel and the Minister of Mines, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Shri Wahidullah Shahrani where they discussed the prospects of mineral exploration and mining as well as other related issues.

An MoU on Co-operation in the Field of Steel Sector was also signed between Minister of Steel, Government of India and Minister of Mines, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. The MoU will not just act as a catalyst in the development of Afghanistan but will also be a high point in ensuring co-operation in the two countries. The initiative will also facilitate greater economic ties between the two countries.