Afghanistan announced Sunday the discovery of a huge oil reserve in the northern sector of the country. Jawad Omar, spokesman for the nations’s ministry of mines, indicated it could contain an estimated 1.8 billion barrels. The initial survey was conducted by Afghan and international geologists.
Efforts have been made to wean Afghanistan off dependency on opium. The oil along with other mineral could lead to a way out. Other untapped resources include iron ore, copper, lithium, oil, gas and gem stones. The mineral deposits were valued at approximately $3 trillion, a bonanza that the government said it hopes will reduce its reliance on foreign aid, especially when NATO begins troop withdrawals.
But the Taliban has increased its activity in the north and could hinder plans for developing the resources. Al-Qaeda also has its eye on the wealth as a source to fund its activities. NATO forces have yet to gain dominance in the region. However, NATO troops are making new efforts to dislodge the Taliban foothold.
Friday November 15th 2024
