Minews - Aynak copper mine extraction project not in Afghanistan’s interest

(Minews) - Afghanistan’s Mine and Petroleum Minister Daud Shah Saba has said the Aynak copper mine extraction project is not in the interest of the country.

Briefing the lawmakers in the Lower House of the Parliament – Wolesi Jirga, Saba said he will refrain from the signing of the contract with previous terms and conditions.

He said there have been no progress in preliminary works of the project despite seven years have passed since the project was signed.
Saba further added that the Chinese company (MCC) which was awarded the project, has sent the feasibility study draft to the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum five and half years after the project was awarded.

According to Saba, the company has not considered the environmental and social effects of the project in their assessment.

He said the company has also stated that most of the commitments are not achievable based on their feasibility study.

Saba also added that MCC does not have an office in Kabul and the Ministry will resume talks with the company regarding the project.

Mes Aynak copper extraction is considered to be one of the largest mining projects in Afghanistan which was expected to generate a revenue of 300 to 400 million dollars to Afghan government annually once the extraction process reaches its peak.

The Afghan government also estimated around 250,000 tons of copper would be extracted from the copper mine located in central Logar province of Afghanistan.