China gave America a drink, Afghanistan holds the key, inviting India to open the lock

China has given the US a run for its money in the trade war. The primary reason for this is its dominance in every sector of rare earth minerals, spanning production, processing, and high-end product manufacturing. Thus, China holds the entire rare earth supply chain. However, Afghanistan holds the key to breaking this dominance, but it remains untapped. This can be understood from the fact that Afghanistan is estimated to have vast and untapped reserves of rare earths. According to various surveys, Afghanistan has an estimated 1.4 million tons of rare earth reserves. Now, India has an open invitation to exploit this potential. This could dramatically alter the entire supply chain.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has invited India to invest in the country’s minerals. He has also appealed to India for assistance in opening the Wagah border. He described it as the fastest route for trade between the two countries. At a press conference in New Delhi on Sunday, Muttaqi stated that he met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. They discussed economics, trade, and other issues. During the meeting, India announced the elevation of its mission in Kabul to embassy status. He stated that Kabul’s diplomats would visit New Delhi.

India-Afghanistan Agreement
Muttaqi stated that an agreement on trade and economy has been reached between the two countries. He highlighted potential areas of cooperation. He stated that Afghanistan has formally invited India to invest, particularly in sectors such as minerals, agriculture, and sports. The Chabahar port was also discussed. He requested the opening of the Wagah border as it is the fastest and easiest route for trade between India and Afghanistan.

China has given America a drink of the water
Afghanistan has invited India to invest in the mineral sector at a time when discussions are rife about China’s monopoly on rare earths. Using this, it has given a tough fight to superpowers like the US. It has increased controls on rare earth exports. In response, US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese goods from November 1. Rare earths are essential for electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines, and defense systems. In addition to rare earths, Afghanistan is estimated to have the world’s largest reserves of lithium, also known as “white gold.” It is crucial for lithium-ion batteries and modern electronics.