As previously reported, under leadership of Mawlawi Nurul Khodi Abu Idris, Deputy Governor of Balkh Province for Economic Affairs, and with participation of Khayitbay Omonov, General Director of company, hydrocarbon exploration work was officially launched in Muhammad-Jandahar, Shamar, and Ahmadabad blocks as part of a joint cooperation between Ministry of Mines and Petroleum of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the Ministry of Mining and Geology of Republic of Uzbekistan. This project aims to take strategic economic partnership between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan to a new level and is seen as an important practical step toward ensuring regional stability and energy security. Speaking at opening ceremony, officials emphasized consistent development of principles of mutual trust, good-neighborliness, and mutually beneficial cooperation between two countries. During the event, Balkh regional leadership, representatives of Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, management of “Uzbek Overseas Geology” company, and representatives of Turkish company “Safir Drilling” were briefed on work being carried out at Muhammad-Jandagar investment block, which is considered promising for oil and gas production. 2D seismic exploration is planned for a 600 square kilometer block, using modern geophysical equipment and advanced technologies. Specialists got acquainted with capabilities of specialized equipment, including high-precision seismic and geophysical instruments, and pressed symbolic button to begin exploration work along Profile 1. It was noted that this project will not only increase industrial potential but also create new jobs, develop local infrastructure, and strengthen investment climate.