Key points
- Representatives from nearly 90 nations attend event
- Forum aims to support cooperation among mineral-producing countries
RIYADH: The first day of the international Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh witnessed the convening of the fourth annual meeting of mining ministers, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
The SPA reported that memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and cooperation agreements were signed by several nations to strengthen international partnerships in the mining and minerals sector.
Saudi Vision 2030
The significant step aligns with efforts to enhance international relations and develop the vital sector in the Kingdom, which is experiencing remarkable progress under the Saudi Vision 2030, it added.
The forum aims to support cooperation among mineral-producing countries and maximize the potential of the vast mining region spanning from Africa to West and Central Asia, the SPA reported.
It highlighted the significance of such agreements in enhancing competitiveness in the production of strategic minerals and expanding areas of collaboration in the vital industry, ensuring its sustainability for the future.
Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Khalid Al-Mudaifer said that the Kingdom will announce Wednesday new discoveries in various fields, including multiple types of minerals, the SPA reported.
Global mining hub
He noted that the discoveries reflect the development of the sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and strengthen its position as a global hub for sustainable mining.
Al-Mudaifer also emphasized the importance of continuing to enhance human capabilities and employing technology in the sector, in line with national objectives to achieve sustainable development.
The forum hosts representatives from nearly 90 nations, including 16 Group of Twenty (G20) countries and 50 international and non-governmental organisations.
Gathering global mining leaders, the event focuses on advancing the industry to support sustainable economies and energy transition goals. Running until January 16, the forum is expected to foster international cooperation and yield key agreements enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a global mining hub.
