Badawi expressed his pleasure with Egypt's first-time participation in the event, stating it would not be the last. He noted that Egypt has updated its investment model for gold and mineral exploration to align with global best practices, which he described as a key pillar for attracting both major and emerging mining companies.
The Minister also pointed to the transformation of the
Egyptian Mineral Resources Authority into an independent economic entity
capable of developing the sector, attracting investment, and conducting
research. He mentioned that licensing procedures have been streamlined to
facilitate investment and that an aerial survey project is planned to provide
accurate data to investors. Additionally, a modern digital platform, similar to
the Egypt Upstream Gateway (EUG), is being developed to showcase opportunities
in the mining sector.
Badawi stressed Egypt’s potential to become a regional hub
for value-added mining industries by developing projects that process raw
minerals into industrial products. He cited the Abu Tartour Phosphoric Acid
Complex as a prime example of these strategic initiatives.
He underscored key factors positioning Egypt for mining
growth, including its strategic location, rich geological formations, strong
infrastructure built under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, diverse energy
sources, and investment-friendly legislation.
Badawi concluded his speech by inviting attendees to the
next Egypt Mining Forum.
The Minister’s address was delivered in the presence of several dignitaries, including David Michael, Minister for Mines and Petroleum of Western Australia, Samuel Abu Jinapor, Ghana's Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, and Stewart Bailey, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer at AngloGold Ashanti.