WEB DESK
The Future Minerals Forum (FMF) 2025 commenced today in Riyadh, bringing together representatives from the mining industry from over 85 countries to address critical challenges in the mineral sector. Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, joined ministers and officials from more than 50 nations at the prestigious event being held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Centre.
The three-day forum, organised under the patronage of King Salman by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, opened with the Ministerial Roundtable. This government-led initiative aims to boost investment in mineral supply and enhance capacity across Africa, Western and Central Asia.
Union Minister Shri Kishan Reddy participated in the roundtable discussions focused on “Towards a Grand Agreement,” emphasising the development of strategic frameworks for critical minerals, value-added processing in mineral-producing countries, and the implementation of green technologies. The talks highlighted the growing importance of sustainable and transparent supply chains in the mining sector. Key discussions centred on strengthening mineral supply chains and advancing the energy transition. The conference highlighted the collective commitment to fostering economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability and social equity for the greater good of humanity.
The forum comes at a crucial time for Indo-Saudi relations, with bilateral trade reaching USD 43 billion in 2023-24. While this marks a decrease from the previous year’s USD 53 billion, the relationship remains robust with Saudi Arabia maintaining its position as India’s fourth-largest trading partner. The Kingdom hosts over 2,700 Indian companies, representing approximately USD 2 billion in investments through joint ventures and wholly owned entities.
The FMF 2025, scheduled from January 14-16, brings together key stakeholders, including government representatives, international organisations, business federations, and investors, underlining the global mining industry’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship while promoting economic growth.
This comprehensive gathering represents a significant step forward in international mineral cooperation, with particular emphasis on developing sustainable practices and strengthening global supply chains. The forum continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue between mineral-producing and consuming nations, fostering partnerships crucial for the future of the global mining industry.