Saudi Arabia eyes global-level mining system with South Africa: Al-Mudaifer

Khalid Al-Mudaifer, Vice-Minister for Mining Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources

Saudi Arabia seeks to establish a global-level mining industry system, in cooperation with the Republic of South Africa, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported, citing Khalid Al-Mudaifer, Vice-Minister for Mining Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources.

South Africa is a suitable destination to cooperate with and fulfill these targets, said Al-Mudaifer on the sidelines of the Saudi-South African Investment Forum in Jeddah.

Both nations are set to explore solutions for the development of the mining industry, focusing on boosting the quality of life via the developmental projects and the production of the metals required to overcome climate change, he indicated.

Al-Mudaifer also stressed the importance of establishing green metal recycling and processing centers, and providing cheap options for renewable hydrogen energy.

Saudi Arabia will leverage local funds as well as the strategic location to fulfill these targets, and increase awareness of the related challenges and opportunities, via opening new channels with investors.

The Kingdom is currently using steel, aluminum, copper and other metals in manufacturing and infrastructure projects at a total value of over $1 trillion. The Kingdom laid out certain goals to develop the green iron and green metals projects, in line with the under-construction hydrogen stations, Al-Mudaifer noted.