Afghanistan–India Trade Push: Kabul’s charge d’affaires Noor Ahmed Noor used the Taliban’s 5th “Victory Day” reception in New Delhi to argue Afghanistan’s geography should be a bridge for connectivity, and to call for stronger political trust and economic partnership with India, including trade, transit, investment and energy cooperation. Private Sector & Rule of Law Focus: Noor said Afghanistan is shifting from managing war to strengthening the rule of law, expanding diplomatic and economic relations, and supporting the private sector as a way to unlock regional economic projects. Russia Eyes Afghan Markets: A Russian trade delegation arrived in Kabul to explore investment and exports, with talks covering dried fruits, pharmaceuticals, construction, oil and gas, and healthcare—highlighting potential new routes for Afghan dried fruit to Russia. Agriculture & Livestock Diplomacy: Afghanistan sent a 13-member delegation to Belarus for the second meeting of the Joint Commission on Economic and Trade Cooperation, led by the agriculture minister, to deepen trade and create conditions for business links. Health Campaign: The Islamic Emirate launched a four-day polio vaccination drive targeting 2.58 million children across five provinces, including Kabul and Nangarhar. Local Infrastructure Pressure: Baghlan residents renewed calls to complete a stalled 200-bed hospital project in Pul-e-Khumri, saying lack of space and facilities is hurting patients and attendants.