Kabul (TDI): Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Mission in Kabul and Azerbaijan Embassy in Kabul have signed an agreement to fund a carpet weaving vocational center.
Afghanistan’s carpet industry is a medium-to-major enterprise which brings revenues, and is especially a decent source of income for households or individuals who know the art of carpet weaving.
In partnership with the Azerbaijan International Development Agency (AIDA) and the Embassy of the Azerbaijan in Kabul, OIC Mission formalized the agreement yesterday. The agreement will sponsor the establishment of a Carpet Weaving Technical and Vocational Training Center in Afghanistan.
OIC Mission in Kabul and Azerbaijan Embassy Sign Funding Agreement for the Carpet Weaving Vocational Center
28 April 2025
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (#OIC) Mission in #Kabul, in partnership with the #Azerbaijan International Development Agency (AIDA) and the Embassy… pic.twitter.com/SsIjt9w3Lz— OIC (@OIC_OCI) April 28, 2025
The project is titled Establishing a Carpet Weaving Technical and Vocational Training Center for the Preservation and Enhancement of Traditional Afghan Handicrafts, and is designed to safeguard and promote the country’s decades-old carpet-weaving tradition.
Carpets made in Afghanistan are exported to other countries in the region and are of premium quality. With little institutional support, the skill is mostly learnt from peers.
The new center will provide specialized vocational training to local artisans, with a focus on empowering women and young people.
Supported by AIDA funding, the initiative will offer training in modern weaving techniques, business development, and market access, ultimately fostering sustainable livelihoods and strengthening economic prospects.
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Afghanistan’s economy is not in good shape since the Taliban took over in August, 2021. The country, whose basic infrastructure has been ravaged by years of war, is gradually trying to rebuild.
However, institutional hurdles, lack of legitimacy and recognition for the Taliban-led government, and assets frozen in Western banks make it difficult to erect a sustainable economy and livelihoods.
Mostly, regional countries have stepped up and entered into a number of agreements relating to economic cooperation.
Nuzhat Rana is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
