"The New York Times" says a team of U.S. geologists and Pentagon officials has discovered nearly $1 trillion worth of untapped mineral deposits in Afghanistan.
United States Central Command commander General David H. Petraeus told "The New York Times" that the find is "hugely significant," and a Pentagon memo reportedly said the country could become "the Saudi Arabia of lithium."
Reports say the largest deposits found are of iron and copper, but geologists also discovered key industrial metals like lithium, and substantial gold deposits. Lithium is a metal used for batteries in many laptops and cell phones.
Officials say the mining opportunities provided by Afghanistan's mineral wealth could help lift the country out of poverty.
compiled from agency reports
United States Central Command commander General David H. Petraeus told "The New York Times" that the find is "hugely significant," and a Pentagon memo reportedly said the country could become "the Saudi Arabia of lithium."
Reports say the largest deposits found are of iron and copper, but geologists also discovered key industrial metals like lithium, and substantial gold deposits. Lithium is a metal used for batteries in many laptops and cell phones.
Officials say the mining opportunities provided by Afghanistan's mineral wealth could help lift the country out of poverty.
compiled from agency reports