The Mine-Cum-Red-Herring of Kabul

One can interpret the story in different ways. As much as it concerns Afghanistan and the region, it could be welcome news. A mine-rich country is an opportunity both for its nations and its neighbors. But the question is, why is the news reported as a brand-new discovery has been made? And what is the motive behind publishing of such news when the first and foremost concern of the Afghan nation and its neighbors is nothing but security?

During the occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s, the Soviets carried out geological surveys in northern and western Afghanistan, the remnants of which are still visible near Iran’s border (Eslam-Qal’eh and Herat). Similar signs of Soviet’s studies are seen in the northwestern Balkh Province, near Mazar Sharif. Nonetheless, instability, ethnic, linguistic and religious tensions which cut the nation into different sections, the question of cost-effectiveness and Afghanistan’s peculiar geographical feature (the country is landlocked) discouraged the Soviets to operationalize their studies to exploit the mineral sources.

Having failed to defeat terrorism and establish security, the extraregional forces are probably more than happy at the prospect of this news, a powerful red herring to divert the attention of the Western taxpayers. “We had no political or security success” they might say “but see! We found the treasure!” No need to say such news –even if valid- will never help the region regain its security.