Uzbekistan has provided medical and non-medical equipment worth $200,000 to Abu Ali Sina Balkhi Hospital in Afghanistan’s northern Balkh province, as Afghanistan’s healthcare sector continues to face shortages of supplies and funding challenges.
Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Health said on Saturday that the assistance includes hospital beds, wheelchairs, refrigerators and other essential equipment designed to improve healthcare services and strengthen the hospital’s capacity.
The support comes as Afghanistan’s healthcare system faces ongoing difficulties, including shortages of medical equipment, declining international assistance and financial pressures affecting hospitals across the country.
Humanitarian organizations and healthcare providers have repeatedly warned that Afghanistan’s medical sector remains heavily reliant on external support, with many facilities struggling to maintain basic services due to limited resources.
The challenges have also been affected by disruptions to Afghanistan’s trade routes. Restrictions and tensions affecting transit through Pakistan have increased pressure on supply chains, including the movement of medicines and medical equipment, prompting Afghanistan to expand the use of alternative corridors through Central Asian countries and Iran.
Routes connecting Afghanistan with Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Iran have gained greater importance for trade and supply access. However, high transportation costs, infrastructure limitations and regional restrictions continue to pose challenges for businesses and aid deliveries.
Uzbekistan has maintained humanitarian and economic engagement with Afghanistan, providing support in areas including healthcare, energy, transport and regional connectivity.
The latest assistance highlights the growing role of Central Asian countries in supporting Afghanistan’s essential services as the country continues to face humanitarian and economic pressures.
