Amman, June 18 (Petra) -- Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh on Thursday inspected the copper and associated minerals exploration and development project in the Abu Khashiba area, reviewing progress of operations carried out by Wadi Araba Minerals Company.
On the sidelines of the visit, Kharabsheh witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Wadi Araba Minerals Company and the Vocational Training Corporation to establish a specialized training center in Abu Khashiba. He also witnessed the signing of a well-drilling contract with Saudi Arabia’s Golden Compass, a company specialized in drilling, surveying, mineral evaluation, and consulting.
The minister said Wadi Araba Minerals Company, which holds the concession for copper exploration in Abu Khashiba, is currently conducting exploration activities in line with the approved implementation agreement, work program and technical development plan.
He noted that the company is undertaking basic civil works for the construction of its first ore processing plant, with plans to establish a larger facility in subsequent phases.
Kharabsheh said the Abu Khashiba copper agreement is the first of its kind in Jordan, adding that similar memoranda of understanding have been signed with other companies to explore mineral resources in different regions of the Kingdom.
He stressed the importance of developing strategic minerals, particularly copper and associated resources, noting that the project aligns with global demand and forms part of efforts to revitalize Jordan’s mining sector, increase its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product, expand job creation and improve living standards in line with the Economic Modernization Vision.
For his part, Wadi Araba Minerals Company General Manager Hani Asmar said the Abu Khashiba project is among the Kingdom’s most promising mining ventures, offering significant investment and economic opportunities.
He said work is underway to establish the first ore processing plant this year, with a production capacity ranging between 1,000 and 3,000 tons of raw copper annually.
Asmar added that the company is committed to sustainability, social responsibility and local development, noting that it has strengthened engagement with the local community through consultative meetings with residents and dignitaries in Abu Khashiba.
He said an agreement was reached to form a joint committee to coordinate project requirements, workforce needs and services, while supporting employment opportunities for residents and helping reduce unemployment.
The company expects the project to generate more than 800 direct jobs, in addition to hundreds of indirect opportunities, supported by training programs to be delivered through the planned vocational training center in cooperation with the Vocational Training Corporation.
Asmar also said environmental impact assessment studies have been initiated in cooperation with the consulting firm Management and Environment for Hima, to ensure mining operations comply with environmental standards and balance economic development with environmental protection.
During the visit, company staff reviewed completed projects reflecting best practices in corporate social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and local community development, aimed at maximizing economic value and benefits for residents.
//Petra// AJ
