Tunisia's Minister of Equipment and Housing, Salah Zouari, has reaffirmed the country's commitment to achieving regional integration and developing the mining sector's value chain. During his participation in the 5th Egypt Mining Forum in Cairo, Zouari highlighted the importance of fostering regional integration and enhancing local and shared value chains to support high-value-added industries. This approach aims to reduce reliance on imported inputs and create new export opportunities.
The mining sector plays a vital role in Tunisia's economy, with the country possessing diverse mineral wealth, including lead, zinc, iron, salts, and potash. Zouari emphasized the need to leverage these resources to drive economic growth and development. He also praised long-standing trade relations with friendly countries, particularly in the supply of raw materials for fertilizer production, such as sulfur and ammonia.
Zouari called for further strengthening of these relationships to serve mutual interests. He also highlighted Tunisia's efforts to regain its global position in the phosphate sector by developing mining research and exploration, encouraging private investment, and providing digital geological data. The minister emphasized the importance of promoting promising mining areas to attract investment and drive growth.
The Egypt Mining Forum, which took place over two days, brought together 500 high-level participants, including heads of government, ministers, and business leaders from 50 countries. The event featured over 100 institutions showcasing the latest technologies and solutions in the mining sector, as well as around 6,000 visitors from the public and private sectors.
Zouari's participation in the forum was part of a panel discussion on linking mineral development to industrial growth. The discussion included Egyptian Minister of Industry Khaled Hashem, Nigerian Minister of Solid Minerals Development Oladile Henry Alaki, and representatives from major companies, including the Swedish company, Elektryk, and Indorama.
The Tunisian minister stressed the need for enhanced integration between the public and private sectors, as well as knowledge sharing among African and Arab countries. This collaboration is crucial for achieving inclusive economic development that meets the aspirations of regional populations.
The forum provided a platform for participants to explore opportunities for cooperation and investment in the mining sector. With a focus on unlocking the potential of the Arab Nubian Shield, the event aimed to promote economic growth and development in the region.
Key points
- Tunisia is committed to regional integration and developing its mining sector to drive economic growth and reduce reliance on imported inputs.
