Tianjin: China and Ghana have announced plans to collaborate on mapping mineral belts and assessing the potential of critical minerals such as gold and lithium in Ghana. This initiative aims to utilize China's advanced geological mapping technology, including satellite remote sensing and aerogeophysical surveys, to enhance Ghana's geological data.
According to Ghana Web, China's Vice Minister for Natural Resources, Sun Shuxian, made the pledge during bilateral discussions with Ghana's Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and Ghana's Ambassador to China, Kojo Bonsu. The meetings took place on the sidelines of the 28th China Mining Conference in Tianjin. Vice Minister Sun emphasized China's commitment to providing technical support to address gaps in Ghana's basic geological data through supplementary surveys in unmapped regions.
In his remarks, Vice Minister Sun outlined plans for the two countries to conduct joint geological mapping and assess the potential of critical minerals in key metallogenic belts. He also mentioned the exploration of long-term joint research into minerals of mutual interest, proposing the establishment of joint laboratories focused on geological prospecting and mineral resources, particularly for valuable minerals like gold and lithium.
Further cooperation was highlighted by Sun's proposal for a formal dialogue mechanism on sustainable mining. He advocated for responsible investment in Ghana and suggested pragmatic exchanges between the two nations to discuss sustainable mining, mineral resource industrial chain development, and green and intelligent mining practices.
Sun also noted that the China Geological Survey, including participation from the Wuhan Geological Survey, would oversee the technical cooperation. This would involve annual exchanges of technicians for joint training and field studies, strengthening the collaboration between the two countries.
Ghana's Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, expressed Ghana's interest in partnerships that focus on value addition, technology transfer, and responsible mining. Additionally, Dr. Prosper Akaba, Director-General of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, conveyed gratitude to China's Vice Minister for the support pledge, affirming the Authority's readiness to collaborate with the Wuhan Geological Survey on the proposed initiatives.