In a significant move to strengthen Egypt’s mining sector, the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China’s Asia Potash company to cooperate in the exploration and development of phosphate ore reserves.
The agreement was witnessed by Engineer Karim Badawi, Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, and marks a major step in the country’s plan to expand its mining capabilities and increase the sector’s contribution to the national economy.
The MoU was signed by Geologist Yasser Ramadan, Chairman of the Egyptian Mineral Resources and Mining Industries Authority, and Mr.
Zhang Yue, Director and Vice President of Asia Potash.
“The memorandum aims to enhance joint cooperation in the exploration and evaluation of phosphate ore reserves and maximize the added value of this vital resource,” stated the Authority.
Following the signing, Minister Badawi emphasized that the agreement aligns with the ministry’s broader strategy to raise the mining sector’s GDP contribution from under 1% to between 5–6%. This is to be achieved through attracting serious foreign investments, unlocking new exploration opportunities, and implementing a robust value-maximization framework for mineral resources.
“Badawi stressed the importance of taking urgent practical steps to begin implementing the project, with periodic meetings being held to monitor the implementation phases and ensure adherence to the specified timetable.”
Under the terms of the MoU, the two sides will collaborate on scientific research to locate and confirm phosphate ore reserves, engage in enrichment and processing, and explore the establishment of a state-of-the-art phosphate fertilizer production plant in line with Egyptian laws.
The signing ceremony was attended by several high-level officials, including Major General Ashraf Attia, Advisor to Asia Potash Egypt; Dr.
Mohamed El-Bagoury, Supervisor of the Ministry’s Central Administration for Legal Affairs; Yu Baoli and Feng Fei, Vice Presidents of the Industrial Development Department; Jia Jiangtao, Administrative Affairs Supervisor; and Zarifa Zaghloul, Chinese translator.
The agreement is expected to open new doors for technological collaboration and industrial development between Egypt and China, further positioning Egypt as a key player in the global phosphate market.
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