Armenia Positions Itself as Emerging Player in Global Mining Network

The FMF-2026 international forum officially opened today in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, bringing together leading organizations, government representatives, and industry professionals from around the world with an interest in the global mining sector.

Armenia is participating in the forum for the first time, represented within the official government delegation. Among the participants is Vardan Jhanyan, President of the Union of Miners and Metallurgists of Armenia.

On January 13, within the framework of the forum, Mr. Jhanyan held a meeting with Rohitesh (Ro) Dhawan, President of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM).

During the meeting, the parties discussed the potential membership of the Union of Miners and Metallurgists of Armenia in the global mining association, as well as opportunities for expanding cooperation. Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations, exchanging international experience, and implementing joint initiatives.

Mr. Jhanyan officially invited Mr. Dhawan to visit Armenia and participate in the Mining Forum 2026, the country’s flagship annual mining event organized by the Union, as well as in the COP-17 conference. Mr. Dhawan expressed his willingness to accept the invitations and attend the upcoming events in Armenia, noting that the country represents an important platform for industry dialogue and cooperation.

The meeting was also attended by Asatur Vardanyan, Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of Armenia, who highlighted the importance of cooperation between the public and private sectors in ensuring the sustainable and responsible development of the mining industry.

Summarizing the outcomes of the meeting, Mr. Jhanyan described it as productive and forward-looking, emphasizing that Armenia’s first participation in the FMF-2026 forum, along with high-level meetings of this kind, plays a significant role in advancing the country’s international integration and enhancing its reputation in the sector.

“This meeting and the agreements reached lay an important foundation for a new phase of cooperation between Armenia and the international mining community,” Mr. Jhanjanyan stated.

As noted, Armenia’s debut participation in FMF-2026 marks an important step toward expanding international cooperation and building new partnerships in the mining sector.

It is also worth noting that the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), established in 2001, is the world’s leading mining association. Its membership includes major mining and metals companies, as well as national, regional, and professional associations. According to recent data, ICMM brings together approximately 28 major companies and more than 35 international, national, and regional associations, collectively representing a significant share of the global mining industry and working to promote responsible, sustainable, and safe practices.