Foreign Affairs Committee visit Chile for critical minerals inquiry
7 March 2023
The visit is taking place over the next few days, during which the Committee will meet with a range of individuals including the Chilean Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Mining, members of the Chilean Congress, the British Ambassador to Chile and the Five Eyes Ambassadors. The Committee will also meet with local representatives and investigative journalists, as well as visit a lithium mine and refinery.
Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Alicia Kearns MP, said:
“I’m pleased to be here in Chile and to have received such a warm welcome.
“This visit is an important opportunity to learn more about Chile, particularly the complexities of Chile’s critical minerals industry. Not only is mining a core pillar of the Chilean economy, but Chile is one of the world’s leading exporters of critical minerals. This includes lithium, copper and iodine – minerals that will become increasingly important as the world’s reliance on modern technology grows. This is a fact-finding visit, where we hope to hear many different perspectives on mining in Chile.
“This visit also marks 200 years since the establishment of bilateral relations between Chile and the UK. The relationship between our two countries is strong and long-standing – I have no doubt this will continue for years to come.”
Further information
Image: UK Parliament/Tyler Allicock