Tajikistan hosted its first roundtable focused on cooperation with South Korea in the field of mineral resources, on December 9. The event brought together leading experts and government representatives from both nations to discuss potential areas of collaboration, ASIA-Plus informs.
Participants and Representation
Tajikistan was represented by specialists from the Main Geology Directorate, alongside representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Industry, as well as the State Commission on Mineral Reserves.
The South Korean delegation was led by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Tajikistan, Jong Song Sik, and included representatives from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), and other scientific and research organizations.
Key Topics of Discussion
Participants focused on several aspects of mineral resource cooperation:
- Geological exploration: Utilizing advanced technologies to identify new mineral deposits.
- Extraction and processing: Establishing modern facilities and adopting innovative mining technologies.
- Workforce training: Preparing skilled professionals for the mining industry.
- Investment: Attracting South Korean investments to develop Tajikistan's mineral resource sector.
Tajikistan’s mineral reserves make it one of Central Asia's most resource-rich countries. Over 1,000 deposits of 50 types of minerals, including gold, silver, copper, zinc, lead, rare earth elements, and gemstones, have been identified and explored.
A notable area of focus during the roundtable was the Koni Mansour silver deposit, which contains over 70% of Tajikistan's silver reserves. Additionally, Tajikistan’s 150 identified gold deposits, many of which remain underexplored, received significant attention.
The country is a regional leader in antimony reserves, particularly in the Zeravshan-Hissar mercury-antimony belt, and holds reserves of rare metals like tantalum, niobium, lithium, and beryllium, which are essential for modern industries such as electric vehicle battery production and solar panels.
Advances in Geological Exploration
Tajikistan is advancing its geological exploration efforts through the "Geology Development Program for 2021–2030." This initiative focuses on improving geological mapping and identifying new deposits of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, creating opportunities for economic growth and investment.
South Korea’s Expertise in Geological Research
South Korea's expertise in geological research was highlighted during the roundtable. The country utilizes advanced technologies such as 3D modeling, drones, and artificial intelligence to expedite geological exploration. KIGAM has implemented large-scale mineral exploration projects in partnership with countries like Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Canada.
South Korea’s focus on rare earth elements aligns with its broader strategy of mapping global mineral resources and securing supply chains for critical metals.
Areas of Potential Cooperation
The discussions identified several key areas for collaboration:
- Joint exploration: Conducting surveys with advanced technologies to identify new deposits.
- Mining infrastructure: Building modern facilities to enhance resource extraction and processing.
- Technology transfer: Introducing advanced technologies for mining and processing.
- Training programs: Preparing Tajik specialists for roles in sustainable mining operations.
The parties also discussed signing a memorandum of cooperation, with South Korea providing technological support and Tajikistan conducting field studies. Plans include establishing a modern laboratory for geological data processing and enhancing research infrastructure to address challenges such as geological hazards in Tajikistan's mountainous regions.
The collaboration is expected to provide mutual benefits. Tajikistan could gain access to advanced technologies, foreign investment, and job opportunities, boosting its economy. Meanwhile, South Korea would secure a stable supply of critical minerals, such as lithium and rare earth elements, essential for its technological industries.
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