Official: Mineral projects strategically important for Türkiye, Azerbaijan

The joint geological exploration projects underway in Nakhchivan and Karabakh hold strategic importance for both Türkiye and Azerbaijan, Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Deputy Minister Abdullah Tanjan said.

Speaking at the International Geological and Mining Forum in Nakhchivan on July 25, Tanjan stressed the need for intergovernmental cooperation and scientific collaboration in exploring and developing these resources. He noted that memorandums of understanding, protocols, and institutional agreements were vital tools in facilitating progress on such initiatives, Caliber.Az reports per local media. 

The deputy minister highlighted that Türkiye and Azerbaijan — including the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic — are located in the Alpine-Himalayan orogenic belt, one of the world's most significant mineral-rich regions. He said this geological zone is known for its abundant mineral deposits, and recent exploration efforts have already begun to uncover new reserves.

Tanjan expressed confidence that ongoing field work in Nakhchivan would yield valuable results. He announced that the first phase of a major joint project was now underway, with drilling and more advanced exploration set to follow.

He also underlined the broader importance of energy transition, saying that nearly 50 per cent of Türkiye’s electricity demand is currently met by renewable sources. However, he cautioned that technology alone is not enough to drive the transition — access to the strategic minerals required for clean energy systems is equally critical.

The deputy minister concluded by reiterating that joint investment and exploration projects between the two countries would be key to unlocking these resources.

By Sabina Mammadli