Portugal is partnering with Timor-Leste to explore its mineral potential, focusing on metals like gold, chromium, nickel, and copper. The collaboration, led by LNEG, aims to prepare for further investigations and support local training efforts. This project is expected to contribute to sustainable development and economic diversification in Timor-Leste.
Portugal’s National Energy and Geology Laboratory (LNEG) is collaborating with their Timor-Leste counterpart to evaluate the mineral potential of the Southeast Asian nation. According to the Lusa news agency, project leader Igor Pereira Morais noted that there is already identified potential for valuable minerals such as gold, chromium, nickel, and copper. Morais stated, “We can at least contribute to defining the areas with the highest probability of metallic minerals.”
The initiative is a joint effort with the Geosciences Institute of Timor-Leste, assisted by researchers from the Earth Sciences Department of the University of Coimbra. Should the project confirm metallic mineral potential in Timor-Leste, specialized companies will later evaluate the resources’ commercial viability. Morais elaborated that an initial inventory has been completed, emphasizing the need for further site investigations in the upcoming phase.
According to LNEG, extractive industries, such as metallic mineral resources, are crucial for the sustainable development of societies and may help Timor-Leste transition from its reliance on fossil fuels. A memorandum of understanding for the joint project was signed last March, with fieldwork commencing thereafter. Morais traveled to Timor-Leste in late August to standardize existing data and publish the country’s first metallic mineral maps.
Beyond surveying work, the cooperation includes training Timorese personnel, with two individuals set to be hosted at LNEG’s Aljustrel campus in Portugal. Morais emphasized the importance of LNEG’s role in transferring knowledge between the two countries, highlighting their extensive experience in both national and international projects, including those in Africa and South America.
In summary, Portugal and Timor-Leste are collaborating to explore the mineral potential, particularly for metallic resources. The initiative aims to enhance knowledge transfer and assist Timor-Leste’s sustainable development. LNEG’s expertise will support both survey work and the training of local personnel, emphasizing the significance of mineral resources in the nation’s economic resurgence.
Original Source: macaonews.org
