Lisa Bandari - keynote
On 21 October 2025, Lisa Bandari, His Majesty’s Ambassador to Portugal and Cape Verde, delivered a welcome address at the opening of the MINEX Europe Forum in Lisbon. Her speech highlighted the crucial role of mining in Europe’s green and digital transitions and emphasised the importance of international collaboration to secure critical raw materials for a sustainable future.
The Timeliness of the Conference Theme
Bandari began by acknowledging the significance of the forum’s theme, “Made in Europe: Securing Critical Raw Minerals for a Sustainable Future.” She highlighted that Europe is in a critical phase of accelerating its green and digital transitions, making secure and sustainable access to raw materials more important than ever.
Mining as a Cornerstone of Energy Autonomy and Climate Resilience
The Ambassador noted that mining has evolved beyond being just an industrial activity. It is now a fundamental part of Europe’s energy autonomy and climate resilience efforts. With the demand for materials like copper and lithium growing, mining is seen as a key enabler of Europe’s green future.
Portugal’s Strategic Role in the Mining Sector
Portugal, with its rich geological heritage, is playing an increasingly important role in this transformation. Bandari highlighted Portugal’s substantial reserves of critical materials, such as lithium, and pointed to the country’s forward-thinking policies that support responsible mining. Barroso Lithium Project in northern Portugal, developed by Savannah Resources PLC, was specifically mentioned as an example of a promising and responsible mining initiative that aligns with the strategic goals of both the UK and Portugal.
Recognition of the Buzza Lithium Project
Bandari praised the Barroso Lithium Project for being designated as one of the 47 strategic projects under the European Commission’s Critical Raw Materials Act. This designation, she explained, not only recognizes the project’s potential but also serves as a call to action for responsible mining practices in Europe.
The Need for Shared Solutions
The Ambassador emphasized that the energy transition is a shared challenge that requires collaborative solutions. She reiterated the UK’s commitment to working with Portugal, the EU, and other international partners to build resilient, transparent, and sustainable supply chains for critical raw materials.
UK’s Expertise in Mining and Sustainability
Bandari highlighted the UK’s globally recognized expertise across the full mining lifecycle, from exploration and engineering to environmental management and mine closure. She noted that British firms are already contributing to the development of critical mineral supply chains in Portugal and beyond, particularly through innovations in mineral processing and recycling.
A Call for Collaboration
While she showcased the UK’s capabilities, Bandari emphasized the importance of partnership and collaboration, stating that the future of mining and the energy transition depends on finding shared solutions to common challenges. The Ambassador encouraged the forum participants to work together to address the pressing needs of Europe’s green transition.
A Milestone in Europe’s Energy Transition
In closing, Bandari expressed hope that this event would mark a milestone in Europe’s journey toward an inclusive and responsible energy transition, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and innovation.