The Kyrgyz government is inviting foreign investors to participate in a number of mining projects, including the development of the Kyzyl-Ompol mine, which is reported to contain uranium and thorium. Last week, the parliament lifted a moratorium on the exploration and development of uranium and thorium deposits in Kyrgyzstan.
At the MINEX Central Asia 2024 mining and exploration forum, which opened on June 19, the Kyrgyz government called on local and foreign investors to invest in the country’s mining industry. Minister of Economy and Commerce Daniyar Amangeldiev announced government proposals for the development of oil, iron, and uranium.
Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision Melis Turgunbaev stated at the same forum that the development of the Kyzyl-Ompol mine will begin soon, and many companies have expressed interest in it.
Environmentalists are concerned about the government’s plan to develop the Kyzyl-Ompol mine. Ecologist Anara Sultangazieva noted the risks involved, stating that uranium and thorium are located in the upper layer of the earth’s crust, meaning that mining operations will be conducted openly. She also expressed concerns about the transportation of uranium and thorium to Kara-Balta for processing, as it would require passing through the Chuy region, a densely populated area.
Despite these concerns, the government assures that modern technologies and safety measures will be used in the exploration and development of uranium. The government has also allocated 1 billion soms to the state enterprise “Kyrgyzgeologiya” to improve geological exploration work. All these conditions are being created by the government to attract investors to the mining industry.
Source: azattyk.org
