BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 6. Uzbekistan and
Algeria discussed expanding cooperation in geology, geological
exploration and mining, including joint work on lithium, tantalum,
niobium and other rare elements, during talks between Uzbek
Investment, Industry and Trade Minister Laziz Kudratov and Algerian
Minister of Mining Industry Mourad Hanifi on Oct. 5 in
Tashkent.
This was reflected in the statement by Uzbekistan’s Ministry of
Investment, Industry and Trade, following the meeting where the
sides reviewed prospects for cooperation in the mining and
metallurgical industries, as well as investment and institutional
engagement.
Particular attention was given to the transfer of modern
technologies, the use of advanced geological modeling methods,
joint exploration of prospective deposits and training specialists
for the mining industry.
Additionally, the sides discussed opportunities to establish
projects for the local processing of various metals and exchange
expertise with Uzbekistan’s Almalyk and Navoi Mining and
Metallurgical Complexes.
“The proposed cooperation in geological exploration and the
processing of critical and rare metals creates opportunities for
expanding practical interaction between the two countries,” the
ministry said.
The sides also proposed establishing a sectoral working group
under the planned Intergovernmental Commission and preparing an
interagency agreement to provide an institutional framework for
cooperation.
Uzbekistan and Algeria have been expanding bilateral ties in
recent years, with economic cooperation gaining greater attention
alongside political and diplomatic relations. The two countries
have been exploring opportunities to increase trade, investment and
industrial cooperation, particularly in mining, energy, agriculture
and manufacturing. The establishment of institutional mechanisms
for economic cooperation is expected to support the development of
joint projects and strengthen business ties between the two
countries.
