Somalia and China in Talks for Mineral Exploration Cooperation

Somalia and China have engaged in discussions to strengthen cooperation in geological surveys, mapping, and the identification of mineral resources in Somalia. The talks took place between Mohamed Hashi Arabey, director general of Somalia's Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, and Zheng Xiongwei, director general of the Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation at the China Geological Survey. The meeting was held at the China Geological Survey headquarters, organised by the Somali Embassy in China.

The discussions focused on using modern technology, including remote-sensing technology and satellite imagery, to generate comprehensive scientific data on Somalia's mineral resources. This cooperation aims to improve the identification of potential mineral deposits across the country. The Somali Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources expressed hope that the partnership would soon move into the implementation phase, accelerating mineral exploration and providing reliable scientific data to support investment decisions.

Chinese experts presented two artificial intelligence-based technologies to support mineral exploration and identification. These technologies can analyse underground mineral data at depths of up to 500 metres and identify as many as six types of critical minerals. Both sides expressed interest in expanding technical cooperation, exchanging knowledge and expertise, and developing joint programmes to advance geological surveys and mineral exploration in Somalia.

The proposed cooperation with China is part of Somalia's broader efforts to use advanced technology and international partnerships to identify and assess its mineral wealth. Somalia has been seeking to attract international expertise and investment to develop its largely underexplored mineral sector. Authorities increasingly highlight the potential contribution of natural resources to economic growth and job creation.

The Somali Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources said the cooperation could help create sustainable investment opportunities and improve the country's ability to assess and develop its natural resources. Somalia's ambassador to China, Hodan Osman Abdi, attended the meeting alongside other officials, including Hussein Ali Ahmed, director of the ministry's legal department.

The meeting was a significant step towards enhancing bilateral cooperation in geological surveys and mapping. The use of modern technology is expected to provide reliable scientific data, supporting informed investment decisions and sustainable development of Somalia's mineral resources. This cooperation could also contribute to the country's economic growth and job creation.

The implementation of this cooperation is expected to have a positive impact on Somalia's mineral sector. The country is looking forward to benefiting from China's expertise and technology in geological surveys and mineral exploration. This partnership could be a key factor in unlocking Somalia's mineral potential and promoting economic development.

Key points

• Somalia and China discuss cooperation on mineral exploration and geological mapping using modern technology.
• The proposed cooperation aims to improve the identification of potential mineral deposits and create sustainable investment opportunities.
• The partnership could contribute to Somalia's economic growth and job creation.