Gold mining has begun in the area of the ancient city of Ai Khanum, located in the northern Tokhar province of Afghanistan, in cooperation with Chinese companies and the Taliban government. Local sources report this.
It is reported that excavations are being carried out in the Dashti Kala district, near the archaeological site located on the banks of the Kyzyl River. The region has historical and cultural significance since ancient times as one of the centers of the Greco-Bactrian state.
Experts express concern that excavations could cause serious damage to ancient monuments. In their opinion, this region will serve as an important source for studying the history of not only Afghanistan, but the entire region.
The city of Ai Khanum was built in the 3rd century BC and is considered one of the cultural and economic centers of the ancient Greco-Bactrian period. During previous excavations at this site, scientists discovered ancient theaters, temples, inscriptions, and various artifacts.
Nevertheless, the Taliban government has set the main goal of restoring the economy and replenishing the state budget through the use of natural resources. They pay great attention to gold, oil, lithium, and other mineral resources.
China has been actively entering the mining sector in Afghanistan in recent years. According to experts, this cooperation could further strengthen Beijing's geo-economic influence in the region.
However, historians and archaeologists warn about the negative impact of this process on cultural heritage. They believe that under the guise of gold mining, the traces of decades of history are on the verge of complete extinction.
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