Western powers have increased their attention, especially after Asian interest has been materializing. New exploration licenses were awarded to Ajlan & Bros with China’s Zijin Mining and to India’s Vedanta. These licenses cover nearly 4,800 square kilometers of copper, zinc, gold, and silver prospects. At the International Mining Forum 2024 in Riyadh, nine metals and mining deals worth more than $9bn were signed, such as a copper project by Vedanta at Ras al-Khair and a phased zinc–lithium–copper complex by ...

Geopolitical & Economic Strategy - African nations presented access to critical and rare earth minerals, essential for technological advancements like chips and semiconductors, in exchange for US investment [3] - Gabon sought autonomy in mineral processing to add value, grow their economy, and create jobs [4] - The discussed investment aimed to develop 8 to 10 gigawatts of electricity, potentially reducing incentives for young people to migrate to the US [5] - The US aims to reduce reliance on China, a major producer of rare earth minerals, who uses them for geopolitical leverage [6] - African countries are keeping their options open, being courted by China and the Middle East [10] Meeting Dynamics & Outcomes - African leaders appeared well-briefed, delivering a consistent message emphasizing investment opportunities and the importance of the US as an ally [1][2] - The meeting was perceived as a starting point, better than expected but not fully meeting the African leaders' hopes [7] - No definite agreements were reached during the meeting [9] - The US president hinted at potential tariff exemptions for these African countries [6]