International Conference on Cambodia’s Mining Opportunities
“Staking a Claim for Cambodia”
Phnom Penh, Cambodia 26 – 27 May 2010
Since 2004, there has been rapid growth in the number of mining exploration licenses issued in Cambodia, particularly in remote and poorer provinces such as Ratanakiri, Mondulkiri, Preah Vihear and Stung Treng. Cambodia is part of a region of high geological potential for the development of gold, copper, bauxite and other mineral resources. This potential resource wealth presents a major opportunity for the country and its people, if risks to the environment are addressed and local communities are consulted.
If managed well, mining offers a potentially large new source of revenue that could help the country to reduce poverty rates, achieve the Cambodia Millennium Development Goals (CMDGs) and improve human development.
Establishing and managing the mining sector successfully requires strong and stable policies, transparent resource management practices, and effective state policy and regulatory capacities. Given the rapid growth in exploration activity and revenue potential, the sharing of valuable knowledge and practical country experiences will assist Cambodia to develop its mining sector to high standards.
Therefore, UNDP, in partnership with the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy (MIME), is organizing Cambodia’s first international mining conference “Staking a Claim for Cambodia”.
I. FOCUS
The conference will provide a forum for participating countries, companies and mining stakeholders to share practical experiences and international best practices for the responsible development of Cambodia’s nascent mining sector. Approximately 250 participants will include internationally renowned mining experts, policy makers and mining sector representatives from a range of countries. Over two dynamic days, sessions will focus on technical and policy issues including mining fi nance, governance, environmental implications and community engagement.
II. OBJECTIVE
This conference aims to provide an eff ective and up-to-date forum to share practical experiences and regional best practices in mining sector development to maximize positive impacts for sustainable economic, social and environmental development in Cambodia.
III. PROPOSED TOPICS INCLUDE
• Global context for mining and extractive industries
• Mineral exploration and development – Risk and Reward
• Governance and mining law – the Role of the State
• Regional and international country experiences – lessons learned
• Environmental Performance – essential for modern mining
• The People Dimension – impacts and benefi ts for workers and communities
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Mr. Glenn Kendall
Policy and Management Advisor
Extractive Industries
UNDP Cambodia
Tel: +855/23 216 167 ext 278
Glenn.kendall@undp.org
Mr. Chrea Vichett
Deputy Director
Department of Mineral Resources Development
Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy
Tel: + 855/23 210 811
gdmr@online.com.kh
FOR CONFERENCE DETAILS
Ms. Katia Timmermans
UNDP Conference Coordinator
Tel: +855/23 216 167 ext 275
Katia.timmermans@undp.org
