Vice Minister of Industry Al-Mudaifer: Saudi Arabia Now a Global Focus for Shaping Future of Minerals Sector

Riyadh, December 18, 2024, SPA -- Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs Eng. Khalid Al-Mudaifer stressed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has become a key focus for global decision-makers regarding the present and future of the mining and minerals sector, where the Kingdom now plays a pivotal role in addressing challenges related to meeting the world's growing demand for minerals.
   Al-Mudaifer's remarks came during his participation in a press conference held at the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) to announce the details of the fourth Future Minerals Forum. Scheduled to be held between January 14 and 16 at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, under the theme "Delivering Impact," the forum will be held under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Al-Mudaifer expressed deep gratitude for the significant support and attention the mining sector receives from the Kingdom's leadership.
   Al-Mudaifer noted that the upcoming forum would address challenges and explore promising investment opportunities in the mining sector at regional and global levels. Discussions will also focus on maximizing the economic and social benefits of this vital industry.
   The ministerial meeting on January 14 will bring together representatives from 100 countries, the vice minister said, adding that 50 governmental, commercial, and human rights organizations have been invited to participate in the forum, which will feature 250 speakers, including prominent CEOs of major mining companies, financiers, and stakeholders in the mining and minerals sector, across 75 sessions.
   The forum will host the second meeting of international geological survey leaders, with participation from geological survey authorities across Africa and Asia and major global organizations such as the US Geological Survey (USGS), British Geological Survey (BGS), French Geological Survey (BRGM), and Geological Survey of Finland (GTK).
   As part of the ministerial meeting initiatives, the first meeting of centres of excellence and technology will bring together research and academic institutions, specialized centres, and universities to establish a regional network to build capacity and accelerate technological advancements in the mining sector.
   For the first time, the fourth edition of the forum will feature Knowledge Exchange Day, providing a platform for discussions on advancements in mineral information, geology, technology, sustainability, and talent development. Attendees will engage directly with speakers, enhancing their expertise in these areas.
   The forum will also host an international exhibition showcasing the latest technologies and innovations from leading mining and minerals companies. The exhibition will highlight minerals' critical role in supporting the global shift toward clean energy and advanced industries while promoting the sustainability of supply chains.
   On the sidelines of the forum, regional discussion circles will convene ministers, CEOs, and international experts to address pressing issues in the mining sector, including attracting investments, infrastructure development, economic value addition, and establishing mineral processing hubs. These discussions will focus on fostering regional collaboration in Africa, Central Asia, and Latin America to unify efforts and enhance global cooperation in the mining sector.
   The forum is set to feature participation from several ministers and leading global mining company executives.
   --SPA