Japan has announced a new package of development assistance worth $35 million for Afghanistan, reaffirming its role as one of the country’s major international donors.
According to a statement released by the Taliban’s Ministry of Economy, Japanese Ambassador Kenichi Masamuto said Tokyo will allocate the funding to support development projects across Afghanistan.
The ambassador also stated that Japan plans to spend an additional $9 million in 2026 on programs aimed at addressing climate change and water shortages in Kabul.
The announcement came during a meeting between Din Mohammad Hanif, the Taliban’s acting Minister of Economy, and the Japanese ambassador, where the two sides discussed development cooperation, humanitarian assistance and Afghanistan’s economic needs.
During the meeting, Hanif called on Japan and other donor countries to continue long-term support for efforts addressing drought, climate change and the challenges facing Afghan returnees.
Japan has remained one of Afghanistan’s key international partners since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021. Most Japanese assistance has been delivered through international organizations and humanitarian agencies operating in the country.
According to available figures, Japan has provided more than $560 million in humanitarian and development assistance to Afghanistan since August 2021.
The latest funding commitment comes as Afghanistan continues to face severe economic difficulties, recurring humanitarian challenges, water shortages and the growing impact of climate change.
Analysts say international development support remains critical for maintaining basic services, strengthening community resilience and helping vulnerable populations cope with environmental and economic pressures.
