The three-day-long Future Minerals Forum (FMF) in Riyadh comes to a close today (January 16), with ministers and private sector representatives delivering their concluding speeches and takeaways.
The day's series of panels was opened by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef who stressed the importance of developing human capital in the country's economic future by introducing the FMF Young Professionals Association.
"Human capital is the most important asset that we have in this country," Alkhorayef said. "We are fortunate to have resources like oil, gas, and minerals, but the true asset of our country is our people. Today, we are focusing on that resource—our youth—and their future."
Alkhorayef connected the initiative to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, highlighting efforts to ensure that economic strategies prioritise opportunities for individuals, including entrepreneurs and job seekers. He noted the importance of building a comprehensive mining ecosystem, with the association playing a role in its development.
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"It was clear when we studied international examples that engaging young professionals is critical to building a strong and sustainable ecosystem," he said.
The launch included an agreement-signing ceremony with figures such as Vice Minister of Mining Affairs Khalid Al-Mudaifer, Deputy Minister for Human Capability Development Faris Saleh Alsaqabi, and representatives from Ma'aden, the state-owned miner.
