Kazakhstan Considers Buying Chrome Mine in Afghanistan

The Eurasian Resources Group, a Kazakh company, is considering either buying a chrome mine in Afghanistan or entering into a joint venture with Afghan partners.

This development follows a visit by a high-level Kazakh delegation to Kabul.

Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin headed the delegation.

During the trip, agreements were signed for the import of thirty thousand tons of lead ore worth eighteen point eight million dollars.

The delegation also discussed importing industrial aquamarine stone from Afghanistan to Kazakhstan.

Plans are in place for a memorandum of understanding on the lead ore shipment.

Twenty five agreements were signed between private sector representatives from Afghanistan and Kazakhstan at a forum in the capital.

Zhumangarin met with Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

He also met Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani and Industry Minister Nooruddin Azizi.

Additionally, he held discussions with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the economic deputy.

Kazakhstan maintains engagement with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan despite not granting formal recognition.

Relations have grown over five years.

Yerkin Tokumov, the Kazakh Special Representative, stated that removing the Islamic Emirate from the terrorist list does not mean recognition.

The approach allows for continued economic ties without formal diplomatic recognition.