Taliban Authorities Urge Acceleration of Mes Aynak Copper Project

The Taliban-run Ministry of Mines and Petroleum has announced that Mullah Hedayatullah Badri, the minister of the department, emphasized expediting the implementation of the Mes Aynak copper project during a meeting with the head of the MJAM company. According to the ministry’s press office, the company’s representative presented a report outlining this year’s progress based on the approved development plan.

The Mes Aynak project is considered one of the largest known copper reserves in the region and has long awaited full-scale exploitation. Although the Taliban administration consistently reaffirms its commitment to cooperation with foreign companies in official talks, delays in large-scale mining operations and a lack of transparency in contracts remain significant concerns in Afghanistan’s mining sector.

During the meeting, Minister Badri stated that his ministry is prepared to assist in facilitating and accelerating the construction and extraction activities related to the Mes Aynak project. However, many economic experts argue that genuine acceleration of such projects is impossible without ensuring transparency, guaranteeing security in operational areas, and fostering trust between stakeholders. The Taliban administration continues to struggle with attracting foreign investment due to financial constraints and a lack of effective management.