backbone or bone of contention?

Many hope that the discovery of almost $1 trillion worth of minerals (iron, copper, lithium, etc.) in Afghanistan could provide the “backbone” of the future development of Afghan economy. Unfortunately, I am less convinced. We are all familiar with the “resource curse” literature that claims more of than not such discoveries of vast reserves of resources could prove to be a curse rather than a blessing for most developing economies. Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Russia, and countries involved in the “blood diamond” are but few examples.

The current situation of Afghanistan, often referred to as “the pot without a lid” (dig-e-bey-sarposh) by many Afghans, makes it even more vulnerable to such predictions. While many focus on this discovery becoming a bone of contention among domestic players, warlords, Taliban and the Mujahideen, I am equally, if not more, concerned about international players, such as neighboring Pakistan, China, American and other special interest groups, private companies and MNCs, each of which would want a piece of the pie.

Absent a strong and accountable national government, this news further delays at least my hopes of a prosperous, stable and peaceful Afghanistan by a at least a few more decades.