Estonia Enhances Global Position with Membership in Mineral Security Partnership
Estonia has officially joined the ranks of the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP), bolstering its role in the global supply chain of critical raw materials. Ene Jurjens, head of the mineral resources department at the Ministry of Climate, highlighted Estonia's expertise in processing rare earth metals as a strategic advantage. The country aims to foster information exchange, enhance investment networks, and potentially attract new industries through its MSP membership.
Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna emphasized the economic and security benefits of Estonia's inclusion in the MSP, facilitating closer collaboration with allied nations, investment opportunities, and shared advancements in the critical raw materials sector. This move aligns with Estonia's security interests by strengthening economic ties with partners.
Juri Seilenthal, from the Foreign Ministry, underscored the importance of diversifying access to critical raw materials, including rare earth metals, amid global conflicts. Estonia, home to Europe's largest rare metals processing plant, views MSP membership as crucial for the sector's growth and the nation's strategic interests.
Initiated by the United States, the MSP comprises several partner countries, including Australia, Canada, India, Japan, South Korea, Norway, the United Kingdom, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, and now Estonia, with the European Commission also being a separate member.
Estonia's first involvement in the MSP was marked by its participation in the steering committee meeting in Toronto on March 3. Concurrently, the country is represented at the World’s Premier Mineral Exploration and Mining Convention PDAC 2024, showcasing Estonian innovations and potential in the critical minerals sector. The event features discussions on Estonia's capabilities in rare earth metal processing, strategic minerals, ash mountain reprocessing, and mining industry innovations.
