On December 9, Tajikistan hosted its first roundtable dedicated to cooperation between Tajikistan and South Korea in the field of mineral resources.
Leading experts and government representatives from both countries participated in the event. Tajikistan was represented by specialists from the Main Geology Directoratealongside representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Industry and the State Commission on Mineral Reserves.
The South Korean delegation was led by Jong Song Sik, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Tajikistan, and its members included representatives from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), and other scientific and research organizations.
Participants discussed a wide range of issues related to mineral resource cooperation, focusing on topics such as:
- Geological exploration: Utilizing advanced technologies to discover new mineral deposits.
- Extraction and processing: Establishing modern mining and processing facilities and adopting innovative technologies.
- Workforce training: Preparing highly skilled professionals for the mining industry.
- Investment: Attracting South Korean investments to develop Tajikistan's mineral resource sector.
Tajikistan's rich mineral resources
With its unique mountainous environment, Tajikistan is one of Central Asia's most promising countries for mineral resources. The country has identified and explored over 1,000 deposits of 50 types of minerals, including gold, silver, copper, zinc, lead, rare earth elements, and gemstones.
Experts note that Tajikistan’s mineral potential opens vast opportunities for the development of its mining industry.
A key area of interest discussed was the Koni Mansour silver deposit, which holds over 70% of Tajikistan’s silver reserves.
Gold deposits also drew significant attention, with more than 150 sites containing ancient deposits of the metal, though many remain underexplored.
Tajikistan is also a regional leader in antimony reserves, particularly in the Zeravshan-Hissar mercury-antimony belt.
Other rare metals in the country's reserves include tantalum, niobium, lithium, and beryllium, which are in high demand for cutting-edge industries like electric vehicle battery production and solar panels.
Geological advancements in Tajikistan
Geological exploration in Tajikistan is progressing through the "Geology Development Program for 2021–2030," aimed at improving geological mapping and exploring new deposits of ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
This program is reportedly creating opportunities for economic growth and attracting investments.
South Korea: a leader in geological research
It was noted at the meeting that South Korea leads in geological research through advanced technologies like 3D modeling, drones, and artificial intelligence. KIGAM collaborates with international partners from Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Canada, implementing large-scale projects in mineral resource exploration.
A focus is placed on rare earth elements, critical for modern technologies. The Korean government is developing a "Global Deposits Map," encompassing over 50 projects on traditional metals and other resources.
Korean specialists use drones and other technologies to expedite geological exploration, optimizing deposit research while minimizing risks.
Tajikistan and Korea: partnership for the future
South Korea offers advanced technologies for exploration and mining that could significantly enhance Tajikistan's resource utilization.
Key areas of potential cooperation include: joint exploration of new deposits, leveraging advanced technology for geological surveys; building modern mining facilities, creating jobs through processing plants; technology transfer — introducing advanced mining and processing technologies; and training Tajik specialists — preparing a skilled workforce for sustainable industry development.
Discussions also included signing a memorandum of cooperation, where Korea would provide technological support, and Tajikistan would conduct field studies. Experience sharing and specialist training will also be priorities.
Korean specialists noted that for successful collaboration, they need to strengthen research infrastructure and address aspects like geological hazards, especially in Tajikistan's mountainous regions.
South Korea also proposed establishing a modern laboratory for data processing and providing Tajik specialists with access to educational centers for skill enhancement.
Experts reportedly emphasized the mutual benefits of the collaboration. Tajikistan gains access to advanced technology, foreign investment, and job creation, stimulating its economy. Meanwhile, South Korea ensures a stable supply of strategically important minerals, such as lithium and rare earth elements, vital for technological advancement.
