Cairo: Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Dr. Saleh Kharabsheh, emphasized the critical role of regional cooperation and unified strategies in exploiting shared geological formations at the Egypt Mining Forum 2025. Held in Cairo, the forum gathered ministers, experts, and decision-makers from the mining sector for a two-day event focused on collaborative efforts in the region.
According to Jordan News Agency, Kharabsheh highlighted the significance of mineral-rich formations such as the Arabian-Nubian Shield (ANS), which spans Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, transcending political boundaries. During a ministerial panel discussion titled “Attracting Strategic Partners and Emerging Exploration Companies to Drive Long-Term Growth in the Mining Sector,” he announced a cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources to exchange information and study these cross-border geological formations.
Kharabsheh also mentioned a similar partnership with Egypt aimed at maximizing the benefits of shared natural resources. He noted that Jordan aspires to develop transformative industries based on its national resources, which could potentially lead to integrated projects utilizing raw materials from Saudi Arabia or Egypt. This vision aims to create a favorable environment for major companies seeking cross-border regional business opportunities.
He further stressed that regional cooperation in mining is a fundamental pillar for building a sustainable sector to achieve shared economic growth. Kharabsheh called for continued coordination among Arab countries with mineral resources to maximize the potential of available resources.
During the forum, discussions covered the role of governments in fostering an attractive and stable investment environment through clear regulations and property rights, which are essential for drawing capital and companies specializing in exploration and development.
Hisham Zyoud, Director of the ministry’s Mining Directorate, participated in a sub-panel discussion titled “Beyond Gold: Base Metals and Critical Minerals in the Arabian-Nubian Shield.” This session explored transforming the historically gold-rich ANS into a major source of base metals and critical minerals to meet the increasing global demand for raw materials essential for industrial and technological advancements.
Participants noted the ANS’s historical and geological significance as one of the oldest and richest geological regions in the world, extending across Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. The forum serves as a crucial platform for exchanging expertise and reviewing investment opportunities, underscoring the region’s commitment to developing natural resources and strengthening its position in global mineral markets.