Cooperation in geology and the implementation of joint research projects were the main topics of conversation during the first meeting between the Deputy Minister of Climate and Environment, Chief National Geologist Krzysztof Galos and Dorj Barkhas, Ambassador of Mongolia to Poland. The meeting took place on February 2, 2024 at the Ministry of Climate and Environment.

A representative of the Polish Geological Institute-NRI also attended.

As Deputy Minister Krzysztof Galos pointed out, Mongolia is one of the important directions of foreign cooperation in the field of geology for Poland. "Cooperation on conducting joint geological research with Mongolia has a long-standing tradition, which will also be pursued in the coming years." - said the Chief National Geologist.

"The joint work carried out by the geological surveys of both countries will strengthen the good relations between our countries, allow for the exchange of experience and may bring mutual benefits in the future" - the deputy minister added.

Participants of the meeting at the Ministry of Climate and Environment

During the meeting, Radomir Pachytel from the International Cooperation Team of PGI-NRI presented the current status of work and cooperation in the project led by the Polish Geological Institute - National Research Institute, entitled: "Exploration for critical raw materials in Mongolia - identification of molybdenum and tungsten areas". Last year, field reconnaissance was conducted in two areas of the Bayankhongor aymak - Beliin Bulag and Zadgai Bulag. Geologists from PGI-NRI, with the cooperation of colleagues from the National Geological Survey of Mongolia (NGS), carried out a series of observations, in-situ studies and sampling for laboratory analysis.

Chief National Geologist prof. dr hab. Krzysztof Galos (centre) and Radomir Pachytel from PGI-NRI (right) during the meeting with the Mongolian ambassador

Analysis and interpretation of the data acquired during the first field season is currently underway. The second period of field research is proposed for the period June-August 2024, and PGI-NRI has announced to NGS the willingness to expand the reconnaissance area as part of the project. Detailed discussions on the further scope of the study will take place after the submission of the annual report, in April 2024.

The project agreement, signed on April 25, 2023 between PGI-NRI and NGS, is being implemented with the administrative support of the Polish Embassy in Mongolia and the Ministry of Climate and Environment. The funding body is the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management.

Mongolian Ambassador to Poland Dorj Barkhas (right)

At the end of the meeting, objectives for 2024 were set, including continuing research work in Mongolia, organising meetings between geological services and analysing the geological cooperation agreements concluded so far.

Photos: Ministerstwo Klimatu i Środowiska