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• The Minister of Foreign Affairs opened the XVI SIMPOSIO International Mining Meeting and highlighted the country’s position in a context where demand for critical minerals is growing rapidly.
• The Minister emphasized the need for institutional stability and international partnerships to consolidate the country’s role in the new global economy during the opening of the international mining conference.

Lima, May 26, 2026. Carlos Pareja, Minister of Foreign Affairs, was part of the opening of the SIMPOSIO – XVI International Mining Meeting, highlighting Peru’s historic opportunity to play a strategic role in the global economy of critical minerals.

During his opening speech at the event organized by the National Society of Mining, Petroleum, and Energy (SNMPE), Pareja emphasized that the country must consolidate its position as an indispensable partner in the context of the energy transition.

“The global energy transition is a reality that is redefining the international economy, industry, and geopolitics. And in this scenario, Peru has a historic opportunity, because our country not only possesses mineral resources, but also something even more important: the potential to become an indispensable strategic partner for the development of the new global economy,” he said.

Speaking before business leaders and government officials, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated that the new international landscape requires strong institutions and stable public policies. “No country can sustain long-term public policies, attract major investments, or consolidate development processes without stability, continuity, and institutional trust,” the minister said.

As part of the strategy to strengthen Peru’s presence in global supply chains, Pareja highlighted recent agreements with the United States and Canada to promote responsible investment, innovation, and sustainability in mining. “In the last few months, we have strengthened our cooperation with strategic partners through agreements aimed at promoting responsible investment, innovation, sustainability, and institutional strengthening in mining,” he noted.

Regarding administrative obstacles, Pareja expressed concern about the regulatory complexity that hinders mining development. “There are 265 administrative procedures across 29 central and local agencies that delay the viability of mining projects by years,” he said. On this issue, he noted that it is necessary to continue advancing administrative simplification and the modernization of public management to unlock investment and capitalize on the current international context of high mineral prices.

When referring to the sector’s challenges, Pareja identified illegal mining as one of the most serious problems facing the country, due to its impact on security, the environment, and the formal economy. “Illegal mining, primarily of gold and copper, has become a regional threat that affects security, the environment, and democratic institutions. Therefore, the State has an obligation to strengthen institutional capacities, ensure security in operational areas, and combat criminal organizations linked to this illicit activity,” he emphasized.

The minister devoted a section of his speech to artisanal mining, an activity he considered valuable for the jobs it creates throughout the country. In this regard, he urged the next Congress to pass the MAPE (artisanal and small-scale mining) law, “which has been extensively debated by the current Congress.” He also emphasized the importance of appropriate regulations to formalize and protect those who depend on this activity.

At the end of his speech, Pareja stated: “Peru wants to build long-term partnerships, attract responsible investment, and establish itself as a key player in energy and mineral security.” He also said that the country has the resources, strategic location, and human talent to become a strategic partner in the new global economy.

Photos available at the following link: https://flickr.com/photos/195630249@N08