The 10th Consultative Meeting of Arab Ministers Responsible for Mineral Resources commenced in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. The meeting is organized by the Arab Industrial Development, Standardization and Mining Organization in cooperation with the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources. This important event coincides with the International Mining Conference, also being held in Riyadh under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Prime Minister. The conference is being attended by a wide range of participants, including ministers, officials, and experts from 19 Arab countries, as well as high-level representation from the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States.
Launch of the Digital Library for Mining Studies
The meeting witnessed a significant event: the official launch of the “Digital Library for Arab Mining Studies.” In his opening remarks, Engineer Adel Saqr Al-Saqr, Director General of the Organization, affirmed that this library is a direct result of recommendations from previous meetings, serving as a strategic knowledge resource for decision-makers, researchers, and investors in this vital sector. Al-Saqr noted that the Organization is committed to implementing its ambitious programs in response to the directives of the Arab ministers, outlining a range of technical initiatives aimed at maximizing the added value of Arab mineral resources and enhancing integration within supply chains.
The importance of timing and strategic context
This meeting is of exceptional importance as it coincides with the International Mining Conference, which has become a global platform reshaping the world mining landscape, with a focus on the region stretching from Africa to West and Central Asia. This development comes at a time when countries in the region, particularly Saudi Arabia, are moving towards diversifying their sources of income and reducing their dependence on oil, with the mining sector being viewed as the third pillar of national industry. The presence of Arab ministers and experts at this international forum contributes to unifying Arab perspectives on pressing global issues, such as the supply chains of critical minerals needed for the energy transition and advanced industries.
Supporting joint Arab action and digital transformation
For his part, Ambassador Mohammed Saleh Al-Ajeeri, Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, emphasized that these consultative meetings are a cornerstone in guiding the course of the Arab mineral resources sector. Al-Ajeeri commended the organization's efforts in adopting future technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, and integrating them into mining projects to enhance efficiency and sustainability, in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. He affirmed that providing accurate data through the new digital library will directly contribute to attracting investments and reducing operational risks, thereby strengthening the competitiveness of Arab countries in global markets.
Future prospects and economic integration
This meeting and its outcomes, particularly the digital library, are expected to accelerate economic integration among Arab countries in the mining sector. By standardizing practices and exchanging expertise and geological data, Arab states can build a strong economic bloc capable of negotiating and capitalizing on the growing global demand for minerals. The continued support of the Saudi leadership for joint Arab action, which was appreciated by the participants, reflects the Kingdom's commitment to playing a leading role in developing this vital sector to ensure a more prosperous and sustainable future for the entire region.
