Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will inaugurate a three-day India-Afghanistan Trade and Investment show here on Wednesday supported by USAID.

"Cultivating and nurturing strong economic bonds between countries is a foundation that offers a bounty of benefits for each nation. In addition to more employment opportunities, stronger economies, and enhanced regional integration, these bonds build partnerships and prosperity, and a platform to deepen shared cultural and historical heritages," stated a press release by the US Embassy.

The trade show, which will showcase a wide range of items produced in Afghanistan from gems to carpets and dry-fruits, will also see participation by Afghanistan's CEO Abdullah Abdullah, Special Chargé d' affaires U.S. Embassy Afghanistan Ambassador Hugo Llorens and Chargé d' affaires U.S. Embassy MaryKay Carlson.

"The goal of this event is to strengthen economic ties between Afghanistan and India through partnerships. The event will highlight recently signed agreements, showcase Afghan companies and Indian innovation, and launch a forthcoming roadmap for future engagement," the release said.

According to a US official, this is going to be an annual exercise with the next trade show being organised in Mumbai in 2018.

The event will feature Afghan entities from the Economic Growth, Agriculture, Health, Education, Gender, and Energy sectors seeking trade and investment opportunities with India.

CEOs from major Indian companies and US companies will be participating, and thematic panel sessions on relevant topics will be held throughout the event. The event will also feature an Innovation Showcase, highlighting up to a dozen Afghan and Indian companies offering a solution to a development challenge.