On July 26, 2025, Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, met with John Aylieff, the newly appointed head of the World Food Programme (WFP) in Kabul, to discuss the organization’s role in supporting the country. Muttaqi emphasized the need for WFP focus on development projects alongside its ongoing emergency humanitarian aid efforts to foster sustainable growth in Afghanistan.
Urgent WFP Focus on Development
The meeting highlighted Afghanistan’s readiness to collaborate on initiatives that address long-term economic and infrastructural needs. Muttaqi expressed appreciation for WFP’s continued humanitarian support, which has been vital amid ongoing challenges like food insecurity and malnutrition, affecting millions, including one in two children under five, according to UN reports. However, he stressed that development-focused assistance could help stabilize the economy and reduce dependency on aid.
Discussions also covered the potential for WFP to support agricultural and infrastructure projects to create jobs and improve food security. The Afghan government is reportedly open to partnerships that align with local priorities. The call for a balanced approach reflects broader sentiments in Afghanistan for rebuilding efforts to complement immediate relief, as the country navigates its recovery from decades of conflict and recent economic isolation.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 28th, 2025
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