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Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Shri Satish Chandra Dubey met with Shri Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Government of Sri Lanka, at Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi. The discussions centred on fostering bilateral cooperation in mineral exploration and mining, particularly in securing critical minerals essential for both nations’ industrial growth.
The meeting highlighted Sri Lanka’s graphite and beach sand mineral resources, which have potential applications in clean energy, battery technologies, and high-tech industries. Shri Dubey emphasised that India’s National Critical Mineral Mission aims to secure essential raw materials like lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt, and copper to support renewable energy targets. India is working towards granting mining rights, forging international partnerships, and encouraging Indian companies to acquire global mineral assets.
Both sides discussed exploration opportunities, technological collaboration, and investment prospects in these sectors. The possibility of mineral exploration on a Government-to-Government (G2G) basis was considered, with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) expressing interest in conducting mineral assessments in Sri Lanka. Additionally, Sri Lanka requested India to encourage Indian companies to participate in the development of its beach sand and graphite resources.
The meeting also addressed finalising the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on “Cooperation in the Field of Geology and Mineral Resources” between India’s Ministry of Mines and Sri Lanka’s Geological Survey & Mines Bureau. Shri Dubey stated that once concluded, the MoU will enhance collaboration in capacity building, mining exploration, and advanced mineral processing. India also expressed willingness to support Sri Lanka in skill development, knowledge exchange, and modernising its mining industry through technological and financial assistance.
The meeting concluded with both leaders agreeing to accelerate efforts toward formalising agreements and exploring new avenues for cooperation in the mineral sector.
