(a) whether the Government is helping Afghanistan in building its railway system as part of the reconstruction efforts;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the current status of the projects;
(c) whether China has bagged a contract from the Government of Afghanistan to carry out
a rail link between Afghanistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan; and
(d) if so, the details thereof, and the reaction of the Government in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SMT. PRENEET KAUR)
(a) No specific request has been received for such a project.
(b) Does not arise.
(c) & (d) A Chinese company MCC has won a contract for development of the Aynak copper mine
in Afghanistan through competitive bidding. The project is reported to include development
of supporting infrastructure, including railways. India is committed to assisting in the
reconstruction and development efforts of the Government and people of Afghanistan.