Helaina Matza, Acting Special Coordinator for the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI), will lead a U.S. delegation to the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh from January 13 to 16, 2025. Matza’s visit aims to strengthen international collaboration on energy and critical mineral supply chains, emphasizing sustainable infrastructure investment and economic cooperation.
U.S. Commitment to Sustainable Energy Investments
The Future Minerals Forum, a prominent international summit attracting key stakeholders from the mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors, will serve as a platform for the U.S. to reinforce its commitment to global energy security and responsible resource development. Matza is scheduled to engage with both Saudi officials and private sector leaders to advance PGI’s objectives, including diversifying global supply chains for critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies, such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
The visit underscores the Biden administration’s focus on sustainable infrastructure and clean energy investments as part of PGI’s broader global strategy, which aligns with the goals outlined in the U.S.-Saudi Green Partnership launched in 2023.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
During the forum, Matza will explore collaborations aimed at enhancing economic corridors across regions critical to energy transition and industrial growth. The PGI initiative, launched during the 2021 G7 Summit, prioritizes investment in climate resilience, clean energy technologies, and infrastructure modernization, particularly in developing regions.
Matza’s meetings with private sector leaders and policymakers will also aim to promote ethical sourcing practices and transparency in mineral supply chains, a priority shared by the United Nations and international development banks.
The Importance of Critical Mineral Supply Chains
Critical minerals such as nickel, graphite, and manganese play a vital role in the global transition to clean energy technologies, including battery storage and electric vehicles. However, securing stable and diversified sources remains a global challenge, with geopolitical tensions and supply bottlenecks often affecting market stability.
The PGI’s involvement at the forum reflects Washington’s strategy to reduce over-reliance on single-source suppliers by building resilient, multilateral partnerships. This initiative complements ongoing efforts under the U.S.-Africa Strategic Mineral Partnership and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework.
A Platform for Strategic Dialogue
The Future Minerals Forum will convene global policymakers, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates, fostering dialogue on issues like mining innovation, ethical sourcing, and regional cooperation for resource security. Matza’s participation is expected to strengthen diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia while promoting PGI’s mission of advancing responsible, transparent, and sustainable investment in critical infrastructure worldwide.