Minister of Minerals Nour Al-Dayim Taha stressed the importance of taking bold steps to implement programmes aimed at protecting and regulating the mining sector in a manner that maximizes public benefit and contributes to strengthening the national economy. Speaking during the First Hope Forum on Mining Issues, held in Khartoum on Saturday with the participation of a number of ministers and leaders of regions and states, the minister highlighted the need for effective coordination among all parties involved in mining activities to implement the required measures. He said the forum comes within the framework of the Ministry’s plan to advance and develop the sector in order to achieve maximum benefit for the country, expressing the government’s aspiration for the mining sector to become one of the most important drivers of the national economy through sound management. The minister added that protecting mineral resources is a shared responsibility, which prompted the organization of the forum with the participation of all states, concerned ministries, and relevant official bodies. He noted that the Ministry of Minerals and its affiliated institutions have continued their work despite the war in the areas of development, geological surveying, and other activities, driven by their belief in the importance of mobilizing the sector to support the state as it wages the “Battle of Dignity.” The minister also reviewed the Ministry’s efforts in mining areas, highlighting the programmes and projects that have been completed. He praised the role of state leaders in cooperating with the Ministry to implement its programmes and plans, while calling for further efforts in combating smuggling, regulating traditional mining, and protecting the environment. He affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to following up on the implementation of the forum’s recommendations in coordination with relevant authorities at both the national and state levels.BH/BH