The Telegraph has an article on “combat marketing” — providing wells, roads and schools to win hearts.
It comes down to deep pockets.
As Sgt Maj David Turnbull, of the 1st Battalion 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, said: “We can outspend al-Qa’eda and the Taliban.
“We are not bribing them, but making them realise that the Afghan government and American government are legitimate and we are the ones building wells, and schools for children. Their loyalties will shift and hopefully they will come out and talk.”
On the other hand, the local bazaars still sell Osama bin Laden popcorn balls.