This time last year Australian companies were actively engaged in international efforts to rescue 33 Chilean miners and today Australia and Chile have formally recognised the value of such mutual assistance by renewing and expanding a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in mining.
Australian Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson AM MP, and Chilean Minister of Mining, His Excellency Mr Hernán de Solminihac, signed the Memorandum of Understanding for Bilateral Cooperation in the Mining Industry in Melbourne.
Building on the previous MoU signed in 2006 the new enhanced and extended agreement enables further collaboration in the resources sector, in areas such as safety, exploration, research and development and the use of mining technology and related services.
Minister Ferguson said the new MoU signals both countries’ desire to continue to foster productive intergovernmental and commercial relationships well into the future.
“This MoU embodies the spirit of cooperation we saw unfolding at San José just over a year ago,” Minister Ferguson said.
“It provides for more opportunities to share knowledge and experience on mine safety and emergency management, the value of which was clearly demonstrated in Chile last year when the industry came together internationally in a way that was instrumental to the success of rescue operations.
“Australia and Chile have much to share in the management and safety of mining operations.
“As major mining nations we are each well placed to also promote regional cooperative activities in our respective regions.
“With minerals accounting for a significant share of both countries’ total exports, promoting additional trade and investment and strengthening commercial ties between us will increase our mutual prosperity.
“The MoU highlights our shared interest in further developing the direct and indirect benefits to the economies of both nations from well-managed and sustainable mining.”
Last month, Australia again demonstrated its credentials in this field with the launch of the new reference guide for sustainable mining in Australia and overseas. Mining is a key industry in Chile, accounting for around 21 percent of GDP in 2010 and Chile is a growing export market for Australia’s world-class expertise in mining technology and services.