Saudi Arabia’s Industry Minister Explores Mining Cooperation in Chile
In a whirlwind visit to Chile, Industry and Mineral Resources Minister Bandar AlKhorayef engaged in high-level discussions with key public and private sector officials to enhance cooperation in the mining industry, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
Exploring Knowledge Transfer and Investment Opportunities
The talks centered around knowledge transfer, cutting-edge technologies in mining, and potential investments in the production and processing of minerals, especially lithium, copper, and iron ore.
Meetings with Chilean Officials
AlKhorayef met with Chile’s Mining Minister Aurora Williams to discuss collaboration in sectors with significant export-import potential such as chemicals, auto parts, and electronics. He also extended an invitation for the minister to attend the upcoming International Mining Conference in Riyadh.
Discussions with Chile’s Finance Minister Mario Marcel focused on enhancing trade relations and Saudi Arabia’s ambition to lead the electric vehicle industry. They also delved into the National Industrial Strategy and the Kingdom’s mining objectives.
Exploring Investment Opportunities
AlKhorayef highlighted mutual investment opportunities and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 during a meeting with Economy, Development, and Tourism Acting Minister Veronica Pardo. They explored avenues to boost Saudi Arabia’s phosphate fertilizer exports to Chile for agricultural purposes.
Engagement with Mining Giants
The minister engaged with major mining companies, including CODELCO, one of the world’s largest copper producers. Discussions with CODELCO’s CEO Ruben Alvarado centered on investment opportunities in lithium and copper production and processing, with a focus on EV battery manufacturing.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Kingdom’s partnership with CODELCO through Almar Water Solutions, owned by Abdul Latif Jameel, aims to process raw materials for EV battery production. AlKhorayef also met with leaders from Antofagasta, SQM, Advanced Mining Technology Center, and the Anglo American Mining Control Center to explore further collaborations.