#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Sustainable Mining #mineral resources #Riyadh Forum

Over 85 Governments to Gather in Riyadh for Global Mineral Action

In a significant diplomatic effort to enhance global action on mineral resources, more than 85 governments from key mineral-producing and consuming countries will convene in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on January 14, 2025. This historic gathering is part of the Fourth Future Minerals Forum (FMF), which is expected to see attendance from 16 nations among the largest economies of the G20, where 50 ministers and 13 deputy ministers will play pivotal roles.

The FMF's Ministerial Roundtable serves as a traditional opening event and aims to galvanize international collaboration toward increasing investment in mineral supply chains. The focus will be on developing capacity in the Superregion encompassing Africa, Western and Central Asia, among other key supply regions. This event is predicted to be the most extensive and high-level assembly of mineral resource officials worldwide.

During the discussions, delegates will evaluate progress made in three major initiatives developed during the last year under the Roundtable’s auspices:

1. Development of an International Framework for Critical Minerals: The establishment of clear standards and guidelines is essential to ensure that the sourcing and management of critical minerals are sustainable and responsible.

2. Establishment of Centers of Excellence: Nations will discuss the establishment of regional centers focusing on sustainability in Morocco, talent development in South Africa, and innovation technologies in Saudi Arabia. These centers aim to cultivate skills and knowledge necessary for sustainable mining practices.

3. Advancements in Certification Systems: The importance of responsible mineral sourcing is underscored by the ongoing development of certification processes that ensure ethical mining practices.

His Excellency Khalid Al-Mudaifer, Deputy Minister for Mineral Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, noted, “This gathering signifies a vital stride towards achieving sustainable development in the global mineral sector. It is an ideal platform for proposing solutions, developing best-practice legislation, and exploring investments in mining projects to promote economic and social growth in producing countries.”

Prominent leaders, including mineral suppliers from Brazil, South Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, and various other countries, will participate in these vital discussions about global cooperation opportunities. The agenda for this year includes enhancing collaboration among governments, industry stakeholders, and communities to drive investments in mineral resources while promoting value-added development in supplying nations.

“We aim to support urgent needs for sustainable mining practices, resilient supply chains, and value-driven partnerships in the mineral sector,” continued Al-Mudaifer.

Crucially, the outcomes of the Ministerial Roundtable will extend beyond the event itself, contributing to a year-round initiative with Regional Coordination Groups that will actively implement key initiatives discussed during the Forum.

“The FMF is on track to become the world’s largest hub for collaboration and action in minerals; no other platform brings together government ministers and industry leaders at this scale,” concluded Al-Mudaifer.

Given the escalating global need for sustainable mineral resources amidst climate change and technological advancements, the FMF holds the potential to reshape the future of mining through cooperative action and shared commitments across borders.