Russia, Belarus harmonize national mineral reserve classifications

MOSCOW. Oct 10 (Interfax) - The geological services of Russia and Belarus have worked out a bridging document that makes it possible to harmonize their national classifications for mineral reserves and resources, Russia's State Commission for Mineral Reserves (GKZ) reported.

"The document will make it possible to develop common instruments and methodological fundamentals for the introduction of best practices in our countries. Now it is possible to 'translate' estimates, design solutions and reporting from one system to the other without losses and distortions. This not only removes barriers in cooperation, but also opens up new horizons for other CIS and BRICS countries," the GKZ said in a statement posted on Telegram.

The developed system will make it easier to share experience, knowledge, technology and services, cut inefficient expenses, simplify planning of geological exploration work and deposit development, as well as increase the transparency of appraisal procedures.

The GKZ said Belorusneft and PJSC Gazprom contributed to the work on the instrument for harmonizing the national classification systems.

GKZ head Igor Shpurov said at the beginning of 2024 that Russia was also working on harmonizing national mineral reserve classification systems with China (based on the UN framework classification), Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. African countries and India have also shown interest in this, he said.