Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef has held a bilateral meeting with Benjamin Gallezot, France’s Interministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals and Metals Supplies, to strengthen cooperation in the mining and minerals sector.
The discussions focused on expanding strategic partnership opportunities, particularly in mineral exploration, mining investment, and the localization of mineral industries.
Both the countries reaffirmed the strength of bilateral relations and emphasized the importance of advancing collaboration in areas that support industrial diversification and long-term resource security.
The meeting also emphasized the opportunity for joint initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency and sustainability across the minerals value chain.
The discussions focused on the role of advanced technologies and innovative solutions in improving operational efficiency within the mining sector.
The two parties discussed how digital tools, automation, and modern exploration techniques could contribute to more sustainable and productive mineral extraction and processing.
They also underscored the importance of integrating value chains for strategic minerals, ensuring that upstream and downstream processes are better connected to support industrial development and economic resilience.
Image via SPA | Cropped by GBN
Engagement at OECD Critical Minerals Forum
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Critical Minerals Forum organized by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
The forum brought together government representatives, industry leaders, and international organizations to address key challenges and opportunities in global critical minerals supply chains.
The discussions at the forum reflect the increasing geopolitical and economic importance of securing stable and sustainable access to critical minerals, which are essential for clean energy technologies, advanced manufacturing, and digital infrastructure.
The Saudi–French dialogue forms part of broader international efforts to build resilient and diversified mineral supply networks amid rising global demand.
Saudi Arabia and France signaled their intent to continue working closely on investment frameworks, technology exchange, and industrial cooperation to support the evolving needs of the global minerals sector.
