Afghanistan–China Connectivity: Afghanistan officially opened a 121-kilometer gravel road through the Wakhan Corridor in Badakhshan, linking the Afghan road network to China’s Zero Point, built over two years with domestic funding and designed to boost regional trade routes. Regional Rail Logistics: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and the UAE signed a memorandum to jointly develop a rail corridor through Afghanistan to Pakistan’s seaports, aiming to expand freight and logistics for Central and South Asia. Humanitarian & Economy: Russia’s Lavrov said Western sanctions haven’t stopped Afghanistan’s economic development, citing new production facilities and a power-industry plan, while also warning that millions could face food shortages this winter. Women’s Rights Watch: The UN Human Rights Council unanimously urged the Taliban to repeal restrictions on women and girls, calling the oppression “grave” and “systematic.” Industry & Production: Lavrov also claimed Afghanistan is reviving industry and foreign trade, including progress tied to regional energy projects like TAPI. Culture & Textiles: In Paris, designer Gabriela Hearst showcased Afghanistan-inspired fashion partly made by Afghan women artisans via Turquoise Mountain, spotlighting traditional textiles and “shisha” mirror work.