Argentina and Germany have agreed to cooperate on developing critical minerals and solar energy projects, as part of their efforts to promote a green transition and combat climate change.
The two countries held a series of meetings last week, where Argentina’s Mining Secretary, Flavia Royon, and the governors of the Lithium Table provinces, Jujuy, Catamarca, and San Juan, showcased the country’s potential as a supplier of copper and lithium, key metals for renewable energy technologies.
They also highlighted the mining projects that use solar power to reduce carbon emissions, demonstrating their commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
The German delegation, led by the Parliamentary State Secretary for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Franziska Brantner, expressed keen interest in exploring and producing critical minerals in Argentina, as well as investing in solar energy projects.
The meetings were part of a broader strategy to strengthen the bilateral collaboration between Argentina and Germany, especially in the energy and mining sectors, which are crucial for the global energy transition and the achievement of the Paris Agreement goals.
According to Flavia Royon, Argentina can play a significant role in providing clean and affordable energy to the world, as well as creating jobs and economic opportunities for its people.
“We have a great opportunity to work together with Germany, a leader in renewable energy and innovation, to develop our critical minerals and solar resources sustainably and inclusively,” Royon said.
Franziska Brantner praised Argentina’s efforts to diversify its energy matrix and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, as well as its participation in the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), a global standard for good governance of oil, gas, and mineral resources.
“We are impressed by the progress and potential of Argentina’s mining and energy sectors, and we are eager to support them with our expertise and financing. We share the same vision of a green and prosperous future for our planet and our people,” Brantner said.
The two countries also agreed to exchange best practices and technical assistance on environmental and social impact assessments, community engagement, and regulatory frameworks.
The German parliamentarians who attended the meetings will visit Argentina in March 2024 to follow up on the cooperation agreements and visit some of the mining and solar sites.
This is a positive step for both countries and the world, as they join forces to tackle the climate crisis and create a more sustainable and equitable society.
Source: Mining.com