Portugal’s LNEG collaborates with Timor-Leste to assess its mineral potential, identifying gold and critical minerals. Training initiatives for Timorese personnel are part of the project, which aims to enhance sustainable development in the country, providing opportunities beyond fossil fuels.
Portugal’s National Energy and Geology Laboratory (LNEG) is collaborating with Timor-Leste’s Geosciences Institute to evaluate the mineral potential of Timor-Leste, according to reports from the Lusa news agency. Project leader Igor Pereira Morais indicated that gold and critical minerals — specifically chromium, nickel, and copper — have already been identified as having potential in the region. He stated, “We can at least contribute to defining the areas with the highest probability of metallic minerals.”
The partnership signifies the combination of LNEG’s expertise and the local knowledge of Timor-Leste, aided further by researchers from the Earth Sciences Department at the University of Coimbra. Should the project validate the existence of metallic mineral resources, the next step will involve specialist companies assessing the commercial viability of the findings. Morais mentioned, “We’ve already made an initial inventory. In the next phase, it’s necessary to go to the sites and delve deeper.”
According to LNEG, metallic minerals are crucial for sustainable development, providing potential economic opportunities for Timor-Leste as it seeks alternatives to fossil fuels. A memorandum of understanding was signed between LNEG and IGTL in March, leading to fieldwork initiatives beginning in late August for data standardization and the creation of Timor-Leste’s first mineral resource maps.
Moreover, this collaboration extends beyond mineral surveys; LNEG is also committed to training Timorese professionals. Shortly, two personnel will train at the LNEG campus in Aljustrel, Portugal. Morais highlighted LNEG’s role in knowledge transfer between the two nations, noting their robust experience in various international projects, including efforts in Africa and South America.
The partnership between Portugal’s LNEG and Timor-Leste’s Geosciences Institute represents a significant step in exploring the mineral potential of Timor-Leste. With a focus on critical minerals and overall sustainable development, further exploration and training initiatives are expected to provide valuable economic opportunities for the Southeast Asian nation. This collaboration not only emphasizes the importance of knowledge transfer but also positions Timor-Leste towards a more diversified economic future.
Original Source: macaonews.org
