HIS Majesty King Mswati III yesterday held a meeting with the Chairman of AzerGold mining company, Zakir Ibrahimov, during which they discussed several issues of mutual interest.
The talks, held in the capital of Azerbaijan, Baku, focused on opportunities in mineral exploration, mine development and value addition through processing, which form part of the country’s exploration for deeper cooperation in the mining sector.
Government officials highlighted that areas of deliberation included possible mapping of the country’s mineral resources and unlocking local mineral potential to ensure that any projects translate into sustainable economic benefits for the country.
The discussions are said to have also touched on the need for responsible, mutually beneficial partnerships, highlighting technology transfer, local skills development and adherence to high environmental and ethical standards.
Eswatini has been seeking to diversify its economy beyond its traditional reliance on sugar, textiles and services. The government has increasingly promoted mining as a potential growth driver, but has also faced pressure to ensure that resource development does not come at the expense of local communities or the environment.
The government has previously indicated its intention to work only with reputable international partners with proven expertise to support the responsible development of its natural resources for the benefit of the nation and its people.
Azerbaijan, better known globally for its oil and gas industry, has been expanding its gold and non-ferrous metals mining beyond its borders through AzerGold, which operates several mines in the South Caucasus.
Present during the meeting were Natural Resources and Energy Minister Prince Lonkhokhela, Appointed Member of Parliament Prince Lindani, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Pholile Shakantu, Commerce, Industry and Trade Minister Manqoba Khumalo, Ambassador Sibu Mngomezulu, Ambassador Thamie Dlamini and King’s Private Secretary Mbongeni Simelane.
