18 October 2024 – The Embassy of Sweden in Manila and Business Sweden announced the launch of a transformative collaboration aimed at advancing sustainable mining practices in the Philippines - a partnership between Business Sweden and the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association (PMSEA), formalised through the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The event commenced with a welcoming address from His Excellency Harald Fries, Chargé d’affaires at the Embassy of Sweden in Manila, who underscored the significance of sustainable mining in both nations. “We believe that together, we can redefine mining practices to ensure they are sustainable, safe, and economically viable, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable development” said H.E. Fries.
His Excellency Håkan Jevrell, who serves as the State Secretary to the Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, was present during the signing ceremony emphasized Sweden's commitment to sustainable mining, highlighting its role in addressing climate change and fostering economic growth. “Mining has been a pivotal industry for both Sweden and the Philippines, supporting a range of sectors globally and identified as one of the keys to sustaining global action in reducing greenhouse gas emissions” said H.E. Jevrell.
Mr. Ramon T. Santiago, PMSEA Board Member and Treasurer, also delivered a message on behalf of the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association, mentioning the association's dedication to enhancing mining safety and environmental standards. He shared insights on the importance of collaboration in achieving responsible mining practices that benefit both the industry and the communities it impacts.
In addition to the important MoU signing, Sweden is proud to be announced as the Partner Country for the upcoming 70th Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference, taking place from 19 to 22 November 2024 in Baguio. This conference will serve as a vital platform for showcasing sustainable mining solutions and facilitating dialogue among industry leaders, while facilitating meaningful dialogue among industry leaders.
Participation in the conference as the Partner Country underscores Sweden’s commitment to become a key partner to the Philippines in advancing responsible mining practices and addressing environmental and social challenges. A key highlight will be the Team Sweden Pavilion “Pioneer the Possible”, where Swedish innovative and sustainable mining solutions will be showcased by some of Sweden’s most prominent companies. Swedish Academia will also be represented by Luleå University of Technology (LTU), one of Sweden’s top mining universities. Through LTU, Sweden will also share best practices and pioneering research during conference sessions with the Philippine mining sector.
The key highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Business Sweden and the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association, which aims to promote sustainable, safe, and efficient mining operations in the Philippines. “Sweden is committed to become a pivotal partner to the Philippines in its pursuit to advance sustainability and accelerate the green transition of the mining industry. Through this collaboration, Sweden seeks to support the Philippines with a wide range of initiatives paving the way for significantly safer, productive and sustainable mining operations”, said Vice President and Head of Region South and Southeast Asia at Business Sweden, as he provided an overview of the Sustainable Mining Collaboration in the Philippines, highlighting the mutual benefits and shared goals of the partnership.
“This collaboration is just the beginning," asserted Mr. Fries. “Together, Sweden and the Philippines can lead the way in demonstrating that sustainable mining is not only possible but essential for our shared future.”
Business Sweden and PMSEA are committed to working together to drive sustainability, safety, and efficiency in the mining industry, ensuring that the collaboration will lead to significant advancements in environmental protection and safety standards.
About the Embassy of Sweden:
Sweden has had diplomatic relations with the Philippines since 1947. The Embassy’s main task is to represent Sweden in the Philippines and to strengthen the relations between the two countries. Its focus is on promoting trade and investment and building partnerships including security policy.
For more information, contact:
Athena Cartagena, Communication and Political Affairs Officer
athena.cartagena@gov.se | +63917 316 5706
Website: swedenabroad.se/manila
Facebook: facebook.com/SwedeninManila
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/swedeninmnl
About Business Sweden:
Business Sweden is the trade and invest council of the government of Sweden, with operations in more than 40 markets globally. Jointly owned by the Swedish government and the private sector, it has a unique mandate to help Swedish companies grow global sales and international companies invest and expand in Sweden.
