In a significant step toward reviving one of Afghanistan’s largest mining initiatives, senior officials from the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum have strongly emphasized the need to begin practical operations on the Mes Aynak copper project as soon as possible during a meeting with a high-level Chinese delegation.
Kabul 24: According to a statement released by the ministry, Abdul Rahman Qanit, Deputy Minister for Policy and Programs, met on Sunday, June 15, 2025 (24 Jawza 1404), in Kabul with a Chinese delegation led by Wei Hu Xiang, Director-General for Asian Affairs at China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and China’s Ambassador to Afghanistan.
During the meeting, both sides engaged in comprehensive discussions on the progress of the Mes Aynak project, existing challenges, and requirements for moving forward.
The Mes Aynak copper deposit, located in Logar province, is considered one of the world’s largest untapped copper reserves. The original contract was signed in 2008 with China’s Metallurgical Corporation of China (MCC) and its Afghan partner.
Despite prolonged delays caused by security concerns, archaeological issues, and other obstacles, the project remains a cornerstone for Afghanistan’s economic development and deeper bilateral ties with China.The Chinese delegation highlighted the longstanding friendly relations between Afghanistan and China and shared their perspectives on the current status of the project.
They also presented a detailed report outlining the present situation, key challenges, and practical proposals to accelerate implementation.Deputy Minister Qanit stressed the strategic importance of the Mes Aynak project for both Afghanistan and China.
He declared that no major obstacles remain to starting practical work and urged the contracting company to fulfill its commitments without further delay.
He emphasized that the project is ready to enter the operational phase.The Mes Aynak project, with estimated reserves of over 11 million tons of copper, holds immense potential to become a major driver of Afghanistan’s economy.
Once operational, it is expected to generate substantial government revenue, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and stimulate infrastructure development including railways, power plants, and access roads.
This high-level meeting reflects the mutual commitment of both parties to overcome remaining hurdles and fast-track the project that has been in limbo for years.
Experts believe that the successful launch of extraction activities at Mes Aynak could open a new chapter in Afghanistan-China economic cooperation, contribute to regional stability, and bring tangible prosperity to the Afghan people.
