Work on Afghanistan “Mes Aynak Mine Project” resumed after 15-year

The Taliban Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund had inaugurated the road construction for the Mes Aynak project after 15 years of delay on the practical work on the site. If we give a brief historical hint, Mes Aynak is one of the world’s largest untapped copper deposits, estimated to contain around 4.4 billion tons of copper ore. The site is also home to ancient Buddhist ruins, including a monastery, stupas, and statues, dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries CE. This makes it a site of immense cultural and historical value.

Acting Minister of Mines and Petroleum, Mullah Hidayatullah Badri, the Acting Minister of Information and Culture, Mullah Khairullah Khairkhwa, the Deputy Minister of Information and Culture of China, the Chinese Ambassador to Afghanistan, the Chairman and technical team of the contracting company MCC, representatives from the private sector, local residents, and several government officials were present in the inauguration ceremony.

The article, which is first published in government website (Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan) has pointed out on some major points about cooper mine in the country.

Discovery

Mes Aynak, the first copper mine in Afghanistan and the second largest in the world, has commenced operations after a fifteen-year delay.

This photo shows a Mes Aynak valley in southern of Kabul, Afghanistan, Buddha sautes are seen inside an ancient temple.

The copper deposit was discovered in the 1970s, but development was delayed due to the Soviet-Afghan War and subsequent instability. In 2008, China Metallurgical Group Corporation (MCC) won a contract to develop the mine, with plans to invest billions of dollars. The project faced criticism from archaeologists and heritage experts who argued for the preservation of the ancient ruins.

The project has been stalled due to various factors, including security concerns, funding issues, and the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan. This mine is not only critical for the economic development of Afghanistan but also plays a significant role in strengthening the country’s political and international standing.

Economic Potential

Located in Logar Province, Mes Aynak is Afghanistan’s largest copper mine, with estimated reserves of 17 million metric tons, including 11.3 million metric tons of confirmed copper. The Afghan government anticipates an annual output of 2.5 million tons, translating to an annual revenue of $300 to $400 million, depending on international copper prices.

The mine’s primary revenue source would be copper exports. With its vast reserves, Afghanistan could become a major copper exporter, generating significant foreign exchange earnings. The government would collect substantial tax revenue from the mine’s operations, contributing to public finances. The government would also receive royalties on the copper extracted, further increasing its revenue stream. The project would necessitate the development of roads, railways, power infrastructure, and other essential infrastructure, benefiting the surrounding region. The mine’s operation would stimulate economic activity in nearby communities, creating opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs.

Additional Resources and Employment

Beyond copper, Mes Aynak holds 7,700 metric tons of silver, 6 million metric tons of cobalt, and a limited amount of gold, providing substantial employment opportunities.

The mine itself is estimated to create tens of thousands of direct jobs, including miners, engineers, technicians, and support staff. The project would also generate indirect employment in sectors like construction, transportation, logistics, and services, further boosting employment. Estimates vary, but some projections suggest the project could create up to 100,000 jobs, providing a much-needed economic boost to Afghanistan.
Revenue Generation

The project would require a skilled workforce, leading to training and development opportunities for Afghan workers. The success of the Mes Aynak project could attract further foreign investment in Afghanistan’s mining sector, contributing to economic diversification.

Regional and International Significance

The Mes Aynak project is crucial not only economically but also politically. It will boost Afghanistan’s economic and political strength and foster regional economic cooperation, particularly with China, opening a new chapter of economic collaboration.

The project demonstrates to the international community the Islamic Emirate’s commitment to Afghanistan’s economic development. Positive international perceptions generated by these efforts could attract further international aid and cooperation.

Internal Stability and Confidence

The project’s initiation is expected to instill stability and confidence within Afghanistan. It counters negative sentiments propagated by various sources, showing the Afghan people the true direction of their government’s efforts. This could foster unity and cooperation among the populace for the country’s development and stability.

Future Prospects

Officials have lauded the Islamic Emirate’s efforts in launching this project, seeing it as the dawn of a brighter future for Afghanistan. The mine’s operation will not only enhance the country’s economic situation but also improve living standards. The employment opportunities provided by the mine and the resulting increase in national income will revive the hopes of the Afghan people for a stable and prosperous future. The priorities of economic stability, political empowerment, and improved livelihoods are at the forefront of this initiative.