Tokayev asks Geological Service to boost exploration of lithium reserves

ASTANA. Oct 20 (Interfax) - Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has asked the Geological Service to step up the exploration and development of lithium deposits.

"According to various estimates, lithium reserves in the republic vary from 50,000 to 100,000 tonnes, which is quite a lot. Substantial investment in exploration and development is required. The Geological Service needs to intensify work in this direction," Tokayev said at a meeting with the population of the Zhetysu region.

The industrial sector of the region is demonstrating a good growth tendency, according to the president.

"As many as 23 industrial facilities have been put into operation since the beginning of the year. I would like to mention here the modernization and launch of Kazsilicon, a plant for production of high-quality silicon, which has been down for several years, and the construction of the Elektromarganets plant for direct iron reduction. Both enterprises are very important for our country. They should become drivers for development and introduction of advanced technologies in metallurgy," Tokayev said.

Furthermore, the region has an investment portfolio of 162 projects that will create over 7,000 work places until 2026, the president added.