Eurasia’s Critical Minerals at the Crossroads: From Diplomacy to Delivery

Central Asia has accumulated a growing stack of critical minerals agreements with Western governments, but the conversion from diplomatic frameworks to bankable projects remains a key challenge. This session examines how the region can move from strategic intent to operational reality, exploring the complex interplay of international investment (EU, China, US, UK), local governance, sustainability imperatives, and the political momentum driving the sector.

Key questions include how Kazakhstan’s $81 million geological exploration programme and Uzbekistan’s $2.6 billion minerals initiative are translating into investable projects; whether the Middle Corridor can provide viable export logistics; and what role junior mining companies, development finance institutions, and strategic investors can play in closing the gap between agreements and operational mines.