site.btaEuropean, Bulgarian Experts Discuss Future of Mining Sector at Forum in Sofia

The future of the mining sector was discussed by European and Bulgarian experts during the sixth edition of the European Mining Business Forum (EMBF) on Wednesday in Sofia.

There should be a European Commissioner to focus on access to raw materials, said Maria Suner, CEO of the Swedish industry association Svemin and member of the Euromines steering committee. She said it should be seen how European legislation can improve raw material sourcing on the European continent. In addition to drafting new legislation, she said, existing legislation should be reviewed and improved. She gave the example that the Water Framework Directive creates problems when it comes to mine development. "We need to see in the future what minerals can be developed in a flexible regulatory way," Suner added. To achieve this, she said, investment needs to be considered.

Nikolai Valkanov, Honorary President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Mining and Geology, said that many strategies have been written for the development of energy in Bulgaria, but no strategic projects have been implemented. He drew attention to the fact that there are many raw materials in this country that are not being developed, while the rest are running out. In Europe, the deposits will also run out. Therefore, the future of the industry's development is in Africa, and Europe should invest there, according to Valkanov.

The mining industry in Bulgaria invests a lot, he pointed out, adding that it does not pollute the environment. Thanks to the investments, accidents in the sector have also decreased. There is also investment in the development of human resources. However, according to him, there is also a significant shortage of workers.

Martin Lang from the European Commission's Directorate-General for Agriculture commented that we are witnessing a resurgence of mining, and this should be built upon.