DEF IX - Deputy Environment Min Sdoukou presents four initiatives to develop mining industry

They include the following:

- Rationalizing regulatory rules by updating the Mining Code that is 50 years old

- Reducing waiting time for licensing to a maximum 2 years, as set by the European Union through the action for critical raw materials

- Evaluating the terms and rules in place at regions that fall under the Natura protection plan. "Mining industry must not develop to the detriment of the environment, but a great range of mineral resources are tied up in these areas without prospects of development, especially critical minerals like bauxite," Sdoukou said.

- Extensive research to identify and utilize raw mineral resources, particularly critical ones.

The deputy minister said that the EU is drawing up list of critical and strategic raw materials, 25% of which can be found in Greece.

"We have indications that Greece has everything that we need. We must focus on how to utilize them," Sdoukou said. "We have strong foundations, with a mining sector that is blossoming, an excellent geological authority, scientists and workers, a satisfactory legislative framework, funding opportunities, and undivided political support. We have world-class reserves such as bauxite and copper, an advantage in logistics due to geographic loaction, and we can do even better by implementing our policy," the minister concluded.