India, July 19 -- Afghanistan has called for deeper trade and investment ties with India, urging the easing of business procedures, removal of administrative hurdles and simplified issuance of business visas to boost bilateral economic engagement.

The proposals were discussed during a meeting in Kabul between Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) Chairman Sayed Karim Hashemi and Indian Ambassador to Afghanistan Yatin Patel. According to the ACCI, the discussions took place as part of a "strategic and diplomatic dialogue" aimed at strengthening long-term economic cooperation.

The meeting comes at a time when Afghanistan is diversifying its trade routes following a sharp decline in transit trade with Pakistan. Afghanistan'...