Foreign Investors Invited to Invest in Afghanistan’s Mining Sector
In a speech at Tatarstan’s Oil and Gas Industrial Forum, Minister of Mines and Petroleum Hedayatullah Badri highlighted Afghanistan’s vast oil and gas reserves and called on Tatarstan companies to invest in the oil fields of the Amu River, Katwaz, and Helmand.
Ministry spokesperson Homayoun Afghan said: “Participants were informed about Afghanistan’s mineral resources, especially oil and gas, and the existing investment opportunities in this sector. Companies and investors from that country were invited to invest in the oil and gas sectors, particularly in the Amu Darya, Katwaz, and Helmand fields.”
Meanwhile, private sector representatives consider attracting foreign investment in oil, gas, and other natural resources essential for the country’s economic growth. However, they emphasize that part of the mining revenues should be allocated to agriculture, industry, and infrastructure projects.
Khanjan Alokozai, a board member of the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said: “The mines we have in the north and other areas are significant and noteworthy. The work of large regional companies is commendable, and I appreciate it. Russian companies have previously worked in this sector.”
President of the Kabul Industrialists Association, Abdul Jabbar Safi, said: “No matter how much we invest in our mines, they will eventually be depleted. Whether it’s gold, coal, or semi-precious stones, all will run out. We must also take steps to utilize these resources in industry, agriculture, and other sectors to stand on our own feet.”
According to the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, Hedayatullah Badri discussed the establishment of a joint technical committee with Tatarstan officials, including the republic’s president, to expand cooperation. In return, the Tatarstan side pledged to provide scholarships and training programs for Afghans.
