KABUL - An Australian company, Fortescue Future Industries Pty Ltd, is expected to launch a pre-feasibility study on mining projects in Afghanistan in near future, the International Chamber of Commerce said.
The firm has pledged to invest 10 percent of its profits in Afghanistan, the CEO of the chamber, Hujjatullah Fazli, said.
Analysts suggested the Afghan government come up with more comprehensive economic and investment strategies to help attract more international investment in the country.
“The Afghan government cannot get the advantage of the mining sector unless it trains professional cadres in the area of mining contracts—the best way for the Afghan government is to use the expertise of foreign firms which have experience in the mining sector,” said economic analyst Samim Sarim. 
Despite persistent efforts, TOLOnews’ reporter could not have the views of the officials of the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum.
The five-year “framework agreement” with the Australian company gives it access to gold, copper, iron, lithium, and other rare mineral resources in the country.
Fortescue is a major international mining entity with a market capitalization of almost A$70B (US$56 billion), but some analysts still question the way the agreement has been negotiated and awarded to the Australian firm.
The agreement was signed in September 2020 with the Australian Fortescue Future Industries Pty Ltd company, according to documents seen by TOLOnews. (TOLO NEWS)