A Review of Economic Orientation in Afghanistan’s Balanced Foreign Policy in the Light of Interdependence Theory

Abstract

This article examines the topic of economic orientation in Afghanistan’s balanced foreign policy in the light of interdependence theory. The theory of interdependence refers to the economic relations between countries, in which there exists a mutual connection such that the economy of one country complements the economy of another, and economically, one state is influenced by the other. Since every country formulates its foreign policy based on internal and external factors and adopts a specific approach to foreign affairs, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has defined its foreign policy as balanced and economy-focused, considering the country's unique geographical location and its position at the center of regional cooperation. The central focus of this research is that Afghanistan's geographical location holds the potential to connect South Asia with Central Asia, and Western Asia with Eastern Asia, through an economy-centered foreign policy. Based on the principle of interdependence, this geographic advantage can, in an optimal scenario, create opportunities for attracting foreign investment and trade, developing transit and transportation corridors, enabling the passage of oil and gas pipelines, and facilitating the transfer of electricity and fiber optics ultimately contributing to peace and stability in the region.