EU-LATIN BUSINESS FORUM Sheds light on Chile's Lithium Potential and the Global Gateway Initiative
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Brussels, October 2023 – The EU-LATIN BUSINESS FORUM, a prominent platform for fostering economic and diplomatic ties between the European Union and Latin America, proudly announces the successful organization of the conference titled "The Global Gateway Initiative in Chile: An Opportunity for Sustainable Lithium." The event, which took place on October 24th, 2023, featured distinguished speakers and experts who shared invaluable insights into Chile's role as a global leader in lithium production, the prospects for sustainable lithium extraction, and the significance of the Global Gateway Initiative in the region.
**Chile: A Lithium Powerhouse**
Chile, second only to Australia in lithium production, is poised for a promising future as the world's demand for lithium is expected to surge by a staggering 30-fold in the next decade. This anticipated growth underscores the pivotal role Chile plays in addressing the global demand for this vital resource. As the largest lithium producer in the Western Hemisphere, Chile has not only abundant lithium reserves but also the potential to shape the sustainable extraction and processing of this critical element.
**MEP Leopoldo Lopez Advocates Rule of Law and Human Rights**
Keynote speaker MEP Leopoldo Lopez of the European People's Party (EPP) underscored the importance of reinforcing the rule of law and human rights in the Latin American region. He highlighted that the Global Gateway Initiative, which acts as both a "carrot" and a "stick," offers a unique mechanism for promoting positive change in the region. Notably, Leopoldo Lopez emphasized that the Global Gateway should be extended exclusively to Latin American countries that demonstrate a strong commitment to human rights and the rule of law, such as Chile.
Lopez's address shed light on the European Union's proactive role in promoting these values while enhancing economic cooperation with the Latin American nations, particularly in the field of lithium extraction and refining.
**Jan Mikolaj Dzieciolowski on the Benefits of the Global Gateway**
Jan Mikolaj Dzieciolowski, representing the European External Action Service, expounded on the Global Gateway Initiative's recognition of the multifaceted needs of various stakeholders, not only from Europe but also within Chile. He stressed that the Global Gateway Initiative serves as an advanced instrument of international cooperation where all parties stand to gain.
Dzieciolowski highlighted the potential benefits of the initiative, particularly its capacity to serve as a win-win mechanism for local communities and authorities. By focusing on responsible and sustainable lithium extraction, the Global Gateway Initiative sets itself apart from agreements that Chile might establish with international competitors. It promotes the well-being of local communities while mitigating the risks associated with traditional extractive practices.
**Andrea di Masi on Sustainable Private Sector Initiatives**
Andrea di Masi, an External Affairs Associate at SQM, provided invaluable insights from the private sector's perspective. He emphasized that the private sector, particularly SQM, has been proactive in improving sustainability throughout their processes. SQM has invested significantly in research, technology, and environmental practices to establish the most sustainable lithium mine in the Atacama Desert and achieve various sustainability standards.
Di Masi stressed that the private sector's commitment to sustainability aligns with the broader vision of the Global Gateway Initiative, promoting responsible lithium extraction and refining. The private sector's dedication to sustainability underscores the collaborative efforts underway to ensure lithium production benefits both local communities and the environment.
**A Bright Future for Sustainable Lithium**
The "The Global Gateway Initiative in Chile: An Opportunity for Sustainable Lithium" conference served as a crucial platform for promoting awareness and dialogue about the pivotal role of Chile in the global lithium market and the potential benefits of the Global Gateway Initiative.
The EU-LATIN BUSINESS FORUM remains committed to fostering partnerships and collaboration between the European Union and Latin America while continuing to explore opportunities for sustainable and responsible development in the lithium sector.
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
europa@politicainternacional.com.mx
