KABUL - The first commercial oil production in the history of Afghanistan is expected to be launched in northern Afghanistan within the next two months.

Afghan mines minister, wahidullah Shahrani is currently in Australia to for talks with Government officials and to attend mining development conferences in Sydney said, the first major oil production in northern Amu river basin will be started by China National Petroleum (CNPC).

Mr. Shahrani quoted by ABC News said, the oil production will eventually supply oil domestically in a bid to prevent oil import from outside the country.

In the meantime Australia has pledged to provide training opportunities for the Afghan mines officials in a bid to develop  the mining sector of the country.

Shahrani quoted by ABC said, “We have got a number of students (who) are studying at Australian universities. They will transfer back to Afghanistan, they will help the ministry of mines and petroleum in Afghanistan to manage the resources in the right way.”

The untapped mineral resources of Afghanistan estimated to worth up to $3 trillion is considered to play a vital role in the economy of the country as NATO troops are preparing to leave Afghanistan and the international aid is gradually reducing.

Afghan mines minister Wahidullah Shahrani also announced that the government of Afghanistan is due to award five to six major tenders including oil and gas, copper, gold and iron ore within the next one month. (KP)