Sudan and Russia Strengthen Economic Ties in Mining Sector
In a significant move to enhance bilateral relations, Sudanese Minister of Minerals, Mohamed Bashir Abu Namu, met with a Russian delegation led by Viktor Chemodanov, Chairman of the Russian-Sudanese Business Council, in Port Sudan on Tuesday. The discussions centered around fostering economic cooperation, exploring investment opportunities, and leveraging modern technologies in the mining sector. The meeting, which was attended by key officials from the Sudanese Ministry of Minerals, underscored the commitment of both nations to create an attractive investment environment.
Minister Abu Namu expressed optimism that this collaboration would greatly advance trade relations between Sudan and Russia. He emphasized the importance of the Sudanese-Russian Joint Ministerial Committee in maximizing cooperation and benefiting from available investment opportunities. The Russian delegation highlighted their intention to develop relations further, bringing forth various programs and plans for discussion with their Sudanese counterparts.
Sudan's Mining Sector Amidst Challenges and Opportunities
Earlier this month, Sudan's mining landscape saw a notable development as the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company announced agreements with Chinese companies to resume mining activities. The return of the Chinese mining company, Norinco, aims to produce gold and copper in eight designated areas, with investments exceeding $2 billion. Director Mohamed Taher Omar indicated that operations would focus on two gold production areas between the Nile River and the Red Sea, with an expected output of approximately seven tons of gold annually.
Despite the ongoing conflict in Sudan since April 2023, which has severely impacted gold production, the six states currently operational—River Nile, Northern, Red Sea, Kassala, Gadarif, and Blue Nile—are positioned to contribute significantly to the nation’s economy. The Sudanese Mineral Resources Company reported that gold export revenues over the past nine months surpassed $1.3 billion, with projections reaching $1.5 billion by year-end. Recent agreements signed during the China-Africa Forum also reflect Sudan's strategic partnerships in the mining sector, particularly in extracting precious metals, with a focus on iron ore valued at $30 million.
