Key Minerals in the Heart of Central Asia: When Will Kazakhstan Develop Its Lithium Resources? 17 New Deposits Discovered in Two Years – Karaganda Region Shows Great Potential for Rare Earth Development
"Kazakhstan International News Agency report" — Deputy Minister of Energy Yerlan Akbarov discussed on the 2nd at the capital Astana the timing of lithium mining development in East Kazakhstan Province during the Central Asian Forum on Earth Sciences and Exploration (GECA).
According to him, there are 3–4 lithium deposits in East Kazakhstan Province.
"Currently, underground resource developers are actively involved. Among them, South Korean company KIGAM and domestic entrepreneurs hope to continue advancing in this direction," Akbarov said.
He also pointed out that lithium deposits have already been identified in multiple locations across Kazakhstan. Additionally, domestic enterprises are collaborating with South Korean and German companies to conduct geological exploration on other deposits.
"This resource has not yet been fully developed. There are indications that it holds strong growth potential. Currently, domestic enterprises are actively participating in these efforts," the deputy minister said.
The Deputy Minister also addressed when lithium resources might be developed.
"It depends on specific circumstances of enterprises and their pace in conducting geological exploration. For our part, we plan to take 5–6 years. Typically, it takes 5–6 years from the start of geological exploration to achieve any results. If work this year is completed, we could begin next year," he said.
He noted that besides East Kazakhstan Province, the Aral Sea region may also harbor abundant lithium mineral resources.
According to Deputy Minister of Industry and Construction Ilyas Sharhan, 17 new deposits have been discovered within Kazakhstan over the past two years.
At the Central Asian Forum on Earth Sciences and Exploration (GECA) held in the capital Astana, Sharhan stated that Kazakhstan is currently carrying out geological exploration of underground resources in an orderly manner and has already begun achieving tangible results.
"Based on data aggregated from last year and the past two years, our country has discovered 17 new deposits. Currently, we observe a positive trend in all key indicators," Sharhan emphasized.
In addition, Sharhan particularly highlighted the significant potential of Karaganda Region for rare earth development.
"The current focus is on rare metals such as lanthanides. We are actively conducting supplementary exploration and are committed to attracting foreign investment and modern technologies to further develop the region," he added.
As he explained, the area is regarded as a highly promising resource reserve and is expected to become one of the major landmark achievements in the nation's geological exploration efforts.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861364387907851/
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