Russia has proposed the creation of a BRICS Geological Platform for data sharing, which would allow member countries to exchange data on their mineral reserves and extraction technologies.
South Africa has extended its support to the initiative, according to Head of the Russian Ministry of Natural Resources Alexander Kozlov, who made the announcement during a meeting of the intergovernmental commission of the two countries.
The platform aims to strengthen the cooperation of the geological services of the BRICS countries, which include Russia, China, Brazil, India, and South Africa.
Kozlov explained that the mechanism will facilitate professional discussions on key issues of the industry, and give impetus to the development of mining technologies, the ongoing exchange of knowledge and experience, and will ensure the launch and implementation of joint programs and projects both bilaterally and on a multilateral basis.
The next step is for the heads of geological departments of the BRICS member countries to prepare a joint memorandum on cooperation, followed by the development and approval of a comprehensive cooperation program that includes specific areas of joint activities and projects.
The new platform is expected to contribute to the exploration of new territories for the production of minerals, including platinum, copper, aluminum, nickel, lithium, cobalt, and rare earth metals, which are in high demand in the new economy.
The BRICS economic bloc was formed on June 16, 2009, and South Africa joined in December 2010.
