The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum's High-Level Dialogue on Mining (HLDM) takes place in Arequipa and Lima from September 10 to 11.
The event —which is attended by representatives of the
21 APEC economies— seeks to resume meaningful discussions on the relevant role of the mining industry for the region.
"The High-Level Dialogue aims to resume the exchange of views on the promotion of sustainable and responsible mining practices, with the aim of exploring the possibility of re-establishing a sub-forum on mining issues in APEC," 2024 APEC Senior Officials' Meetings (SOM) Chair Carlos Vasquez stated.
APEC has been promoting best mining practices, essential for the region's economic and social progress.
However, in 2018, said topics were put on hold following the decision to end the Mining Task Force, leaving a void on the forum's agenda.
This year, Peru has taken the initiative to resume these issues again by proposing their reincorporation through the High-Level Dialogue on Mining (HLDM).
Within this framework, this sector returns to the APEC agenda as a fundamental part of the discussions to foster more inclusive and sustainable mining.
"The High-Level Dialogue on Mining is a very important event because 70% of global mining production and consumption takes place in APEC economies," Vasquez indicated.
In this regard, the diplomat pointed out that 75% of global mining trade and investment takes place within this region.
In this regard, the event is focused on promoting investment and sustainable production of mining resources for energy transition; assessing the creation of an enabling environment for innovation policies in this industry; as well as addressing environmental, health, and safety issues in artisanal and small-scale mining. It also brings to the table the role that women play in this sector.
The
HLDM started in
Arequipa on Tuesday with a visit to the
Cerro Verde mining complex, where
officials from the 21 economies were able to learn first-hand how responsible and large-scale mining operates in Peru, focusing on sustainable practices and innovative technologies, as well as social and environmental projects that contribute to Arequipa region's development.
It will come to an end with the inauguration of the EXPOMINA Peru 2024 fair, where participating economies, such as Australia, Canada, the United States, China, Russia, and Peru, will present their mining industries, projects, and best practices.