Tajikistan plans to create non-ferrous metallurgy cluster in partnership with China's Tibet Everest Resources

MOSCOW. July 23 (Interfax) - Tajikistan plans to form a non-ferrous metallurgy industrial cluster in its Sughd province in partnership with China's Tibet Everest Resources.

Tajik Industry and New Technologies Minister Sherali Kabir discussed the prospects for the project with Huang Jianrong, the chairman of Tibet Everest, the ministry's press service said.

The meeting focused mining and metals projects, including the creation of a specialized technology park with metallurgical production facilities. The parties discussed the deep processing of mineral feedstock, the organization of high-value-added production and broadening industrial cooperation.

The industrial cluster could contribute to the development of Tajikistan's mining and metallurgy sector, create jobs, bring in modern technology and foreign investment and bolster country's export potential. The project would increase cooperation between enterprises, develop specialized infrastructure and train skilled personnel.

The parties confirmed their interest in advancing joint initiatives in the non-ferrous metallurgy sector and developing a modern industrial base in Tajikistan.

China remains Tajikistan's biggest trading partner and a major source of foreign direct investment. Bilateral trade and economic cooperation extends to industry, mining, energy, transport infrastructure, construction, telecommunications and agriculture.

In recent years, Chinese companies have contributed actively to major investment projects in the country, including the development of mineral deposits, construction of industrial facilities and highways and energy infrastructure.

Tibet Everest is one of several Chinese investors implementing projects in Tajikistan's mining sector, participating joint ventures developing nonferrous metal deposits and processing.