Andina

APEC Peru 2024: HLDM fosters reincorporation of mining into Asia-Pacific

Photo: APEC Peru 2024

Photo: APEC Peru 2024

09:34 | Lima, Sep. 12.

The High-Level Dialogue on Mining (HLDM) concluded after two days of activities in Arequipa and Lima. With the consensus of APEC member economies, a statement was issued to express their commitment to fostering a substantial and permanent discussion on mining issues within the APEC forum, with a view to formally reincorporating mining, following its suspension since 2018.

Therefore, Peru is positioning itself as a leader in revitalizing the dialogue on mining across the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing its relevance in the context of energy transition and sustainable economic development.

The HLDM's recommendations to reconsider mining issues at the forum will be discussed in South Korea next year, as the Asian economy will host the next edition of APEC.

“We firmly believe that international collaboration among the 21 economies of the Asia-Pacific region is essential for addressing the global challenges facing our industry, from the transition to clean energy to the implementation of advanced technologies that enhance efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of mining operations," said Peru's Energy-Mines Minister Romulo Mucho, who inaugurated the HLDM held within Expomina 2024 -Peru's most important mining event.

During the APEC meeting, senior mining officials discussed four key topics relevant to the sector in this region and aimed at advancing a modern industry: the importance of minerals in energy transition, the incorporation of new technologies, inclusion through the participation of women and local communities, as well as the formalization of artisanal and small-scale mining.

"Peru has taken swift action and remains actively committed to protecting the environment, promoting sustainable technologies, and implementing energy efficiency strategies across all sectors," the minister noted.

Of the 17 minerals required for energy transition, Peru has eight; lithium and graphite will be added in the coming years.

Likewise, the Mining Exploration Project Portfolio consists of 75 projects, featuring a total investment of US$644 million, focused on mining exploration and diversification.

In this regard, mining in Peru accounts for 65% of the revenue from national exports.

The HLDM took place on September 10 and 11 in Arequipa and Lima.

On the first day, delegates from the economies visited the Cerro Verde mining complex in Arequipa to learn first-hand how large-scale mining operates in Peru, promoting sustainable practices and innovative technologies, as well as social and environmental projects.

The HLDM came to an end on Wednesday in the Peruvian capital.

Peru is hosting APEC for the third time after the 2008 and 2016 editions.


Editor's note: Information provided by APEC Peru 2024.

(END) NDP/MVB

Publicado: 12/9/2024