Energy Ministry, HINCO sign memorandum of cooperation on mineral exploration

AMMAN — Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh on Wednesday signed a memorandum of cooperation with General Manager of Harmony Investments Company (HINCO) Khalil Abu Rub to enhance collaboration in geological studies and mineral resource exploration.

Kharabsheh highlighted that the memorandum builds upon ongoing geological survey efforts in Jordan, aiming to develop a precise mineral map using drone technology, a globally adopted advanced method. 

He highlighted the ministry’s commitment to obtaining reliable data to identify mineral resource locations and assess untapped reserves, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

The minister stated that negotiations are underway with four companies to finalise executive agreements, expressing optimism about achieving tangible results in the near future.

Abu Rub said that HINCO employs "cutting-edge" technology in exploration activities to determine the quantity and depth of mineral deposits in targeted areas, as well as to identify new sites. 

He explained that aerial surveys conducted by the company are followed by comprehensive field studies, which include sample collection and detailed analyses by technical teams.

Director of the Geology and Mining Directorate Hisham Zayoud said that the memorandum encompasses geological surveying and mineral exploration using the latest technologies, with a particular focus on developing strategies to optimise the Kingdom’s natural resource utilisation.

He added that under a previous memorandum of understanding with the ministry, the company completed procedures for importing drones after securing the necessary security and logistical approvals. 

This initiative aims to enhance planning and exploration operations by producing detailed geological maps that outline mineral resource distribution, bolstering investment opportunities in the mining sector.

The earlier memorandum focused on preparatory steps for conducting aerial geological surveys using drones, as part of a strategic framework to support the mining sector and provide accurate data to facilitate investment decisions in natural resources.