JEDDAH – The Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma'aden) recently welcomed a French mining delegation led by French Ambassador Dr. Bertrand Besancenot. The group of representatives from 15 French companies met with key Ma'aden officials to discuss Ma'aden's activities and the future of the mining industry in Saudi Arabia, and to present the experience of French companies working in the global mining sector. Khalid Al Mudaifer, Ma'aden President and CEO, welcomed the delegation and said “Ma'aden is helping to develop mining into the third pillar of Saudi industry, beyond oil and petrochemicals. In order to build a new industrial sector, we require the expertise and support of a number of service suppliers and contractors across the entire minerals value chain. Today, we met with world class French companies who shared with us their expertise as well their willingness to contribute to the development of a modern and globally competitive mining industry in Saudi Arabia.” Ambassador Besancenot said “this visit is a continuation of the special relationship between France and Saudi Arabia and may open new areas of potential cooperation in mining industries between our two countries, based on French industrial expertise and our capacity to help Ma'aden deliver its ambitious strategy.” Following the event, Ma'aden formally signed a Frame Supply Agreement for the Provision of Low Voltage Switchgear with France-based Schneider Electric, represented by CEO and Country Manager Christophe Campagne. Schneider Electric is a French based global specialist in energy management active in over 100 countries. — SG
