China obtained copper mining concessions in Afghanistan more than a decade ago. In spite of the fact that USGS personnel went into the country with US troops ea

China obtained copper mining concessions in Afghanistan more than a decade ago. In spite of the fact that USGS personnel went into the country with US troops early on to help update resource maps and gauge resource potential of the country, the Chinese were the first to step in and begin exploiting the huge potential of the country's resources. Along the way, that good relationship with Kabul soured and it is not guaranteed that the Chinese will have any advantage with the Taliban-installed government once that government gets up to speed. I think the Taliban will be wary of dealing with them especially if they lean on or utilize the experience of those Afghanis who previously served in one of the western-backed administrations. Here is a recent article about the status of that concession and complications encountered along the way: https://foreignpolicy.com/2021/01/27/afghanistan-china-spy-ring-mcc-mining-negotiations-mineral-wealth/ https://foreignpolicy.com/2021/01/27/afghanistan-china-spy-r... I think we will see a period of consolidation of control before we see much opened up to foreign operators who don't already have the blessings of the new leadership. They will operate from a position of minimal trust of outsiders unless the functionality that the foreign entity brings offers an opportunity for them to expand on their control. Just my opinion though.