The Taliban government in Afghanistan has signed mining deals worth $6.5 billion in an effort to bolster its weak economy.

The deals include seven different contracts with companies based inside the country. However, some of the firms involved have links to China and Iran.

The main minerals mined will include iron ore, gold, lead and zinc. The operations will take place in the provinces of Ghor, Herat, Logar and Takhar.

Apart from a boost to the country’s finances, the Taliban government also hopes that the deal will create a sizable number of jobs.

The country was run on western financial aid before the Taliban takeover, which has now dried up.

The Afghan government has been trying to find international investment to put its economy back on track.