Riyadh hosted the third International Geological Survey Meeting (IGSM) today, drawing an unprecedented number of leaders from geological survey authorities around the world. Held as part of the fifth Future Minerals Forum, the meeting was chaired by Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs Eng. Khalid Almudaifer, with the participation of Saudi Geological Survey CEO Eng. Abdullah Al Shamrani.
In his opening address, Almudaifer underscored that the global mining industry relies fundamentally on accurate, accessible geological data, describing it as a cornerstone for accelerating mineral discoveries and attracting investment.
He noted that the meeting aimed to advance practical solutions for the collection and digital sharing of geological data, not only to support geoscientists but also to enable artificial intelligence applications to analyze and interpret these datasets. He also highlighted geological uncertainty and skills shortages as two of the most significant challenges hindering investment in the sector.
International Geological Survey
Moderated by Eng. Abdullah Al Shamrani, the meeting addressed key themes including capacity building in geological surveying. Participants reviewed two flagship initiatives: the Common Global Geoscience Competency Framework (CGGCF), which seeks to align global skills standards, and the Geoscience Without Borders program, designed to promote expert exchange and close skills gaps across Africa, West and Central Asia, and Latin America.
A second session focused on data, featuring experts from BHP and the Saudi Geological Survey, who discussed the development of cost-effective digital geological data platforms that are accessible to supplier countries and compatible with modern mining models. Additionally, the third session examined the role of Geological Centers of Excellence in fostering global collaboration and improving the accuracy of exploration targeting.
The IGSM 2026 concluded with commitments to practical implementation, including adoption of the global competency framework, the launch of a skills exchange program, and increased investment in artificial intelligence to address critical data gaps.
Almudaifer stressed the importance of turning dialogue into action through dedicated working groups tasked with delivering concrete outcomes for presentation at the 2027 meeting. Finally, he emphasized that the future of mining depends on strong and reliable geological foundations.
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