India to Launch Geological Mapping and Mineral Exploration in Zambia
India is planning to initiate geological mapping and mineral exploration in Zambia to secure critical resources and strengthen bilateral relations.
Last month, a delegation from India’s Ministry of Mines met with Zambian officials to begin negotiations. “We have discussed cooperation in geological mapping and mineral exploration with the Zambian government and are confident of signing a pact soon,” a government official stated.
India’s goal is to better understand Zambia’s resources, secure access to critical minerals, diversify its supply chain, boost domestic industries, and enhance bilateral ties, the official explained.
In response to a query from Business Standard, the Ministry of Mines confirmed that a delegation led by Joint Secretary Vivek Bajpai visited Zambia from June 10 to June 11.
The delegation participated in the 2nd Joint Working Group meeting to discuss the exploration and mining of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and copper.
“Zambia holds vast potential for critical minerals essential for India’s strategic interests and economic growth,” the ministry stated. During the meeting, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) offered support in geological and structural mapping, training, and capacity building, as requested by the Zambian government.
