[belter]

Because of this:

"Afghanistan may be sitting on one of the richest troves of minerals in the world, valued at nearly $1 trillion, scientists say."

https://www.nbcnews.com/science/science-news/rare-earth-afgh...

The Chinese will ask no questions, will do the work, and wont bother the Taliban with annoying issues like freedom and democracy. A perfect match.

[smhost]

> freedom and democracy

Are you aware that one of the most cliché jokes told outside of the U.S. is some variation of "when an American says democracy, everyone ducks for cover"?

[belter]

Not about that one but I heard one that I found relevant: How can the US promote Democracy abroad if it can’t even protect it at Home?