Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Afghanistan Government has invited India to bid for and develop its abundant untapped mineral resources; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the Government’s decision thereon?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) & (b) The Government of Afghanistan has encouraged the participation of Indian companies in the mining sector, through transparent international bidding. The Government of India encourages Indian companies to explore business options for participation in the development and exploitation of mineral resources in Afghanistan. To promote the Hajigak iron ore reserve, the Government of Afghanistan had organized a road show in London on 25 June 2010 in which Indian companies participated.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220216242.

Lok Sabha

Afghanistan

South Asia