Estonia joins the Mineral Security Partnership

“Estonia has some very valuable experience in processing rare earth elements, which puts us in a unique position in the supply chain of critical raw materials,” Ene Jürjens, Director General of the Natural Resources Department at the Climate Ministry, said. “It benefits us to be a partner in the field of critical raw materials and green technologies, as this allows us a better exchange of information and an improved investment network, and in the future, we hope to bring new industries to Estonia.” 
 
Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said Estonia joining the MSP had important economic and security policy aspects. “Joining the MSP allows us to cooperate more closely with like-minded countries, share the developments in the sector of critical raw materials and find investment opportunities,” Tsahkna said. “In turn, stronger economic ties with Allies help reinforce Estonia’s security.”
 
According to Jüri Seilenthal, Director General of the Department for External Economic Policy and International Economic Organisations, the numerous conflicts and confrontations around the world have made it clear that we must reduce our dependencies and expand our access to critical raw materials, including rare earth elements. “Estonia houses Europe’s largest processing plant for rare earth elements, which is why being a member of the MSP and contributing to the development of the sector is very important for Estonia,” Seilenthal noted.
 
The partnership was launched by the United States, whose support ensured Estonia’s membership. MSP partners are Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Norway, South Korea, Sweden, United Kingdom and now Estonia. The European Commission is a separate member of the MSP. 
 
On 3 March, Estonia attended the meeting of the steering committee of the MSP in Toronto for the first time. From 3 to 6 March, Toronto is also hosting the world’s premier mineral exploration and mining convention PDAC 2024. Estonia is represented by Director of the Geological Service Sirli Sipp Kulli and Margus Raha, Adviser at the Minerals Department at the Climate Ministry. An Estonian business delegation will also attend, with Estonian entrepreneurs presenting their activities at an EU stand. Estonia’s representation is also organising a seminar on the potential of our critical minerals as part of the fair. Topics include the competence for processing rare earth elements, strategic minerals, reprocessing ash hills, and mining industry innovation.