Riyadh – Mubasher: Saudi ministers as well as regional and international representatives of the mining industry, in addition to allied sectors, will be present at the Future Minerals Forum to join over 2,000 decision makers coming from more than 100 countries, according to a press release on Tuesday.

This will be besides over 150 top global investors and more than 100 international speakers and thought leaders at the forum, which will take place next week during 11-13 January at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh.

Leaders from multilateral global organisations like the World Bank, International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), and World Gold Council will attend the forum to share their knowledge and insights.

The event’s comprehensive programme features various subjects, opportunities, and challenges facing the global mining industry.

On 11 January, the invitation-only, closed-door Ministerial Mining Roundtable Special Session will headline the programme.

“The Mining in a Day workshop will be held in tandem, alongside other workshops and panel discussions that will turn the spotlight on weighty issues, including the attraction of investments, the role of technology in mining, and environment, social, and governance (ESG) issues,” according to the press release.

On the second day of the event, 12 January, the General Forum will begin with a plenary session and a keynote address by the Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar bin Ibrahim Al Khorayef. It will be followed by a Smart-Mining session, dubbed Showcasing Technology & Innovation—Supporting Mining of the Future.

Two additional sessions focusing on low-carbon economy, the region’s growth and development, and country briefings will provide exhibition and networking opportunities.

On the last day of the forum, 13 January, the region from Congo to Kyrgyzstan will be highlighted as the Land of Opportunity - A Regional Powerhouse. “Also in the spotlight will be a prime-time session on Global Investment Opportunities an Accessing Capital. Deep-dive sessions, keynote fireside chats and other animated inter- and intra-ministry discussions will also follow,” the statement added.

The first-ever Future Minerals Forum is held under the patronage of the Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.