20 Jan 2026

On 20 January 2026, the British-Kazakh Society, British Embassy in Kazakhstan, the UK Department for Business and Trade, and the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the UK, hosted an exclusive discussion on Mining and Critical Minerals at the FCDO’s Map Room in London.

The event brought together senior policymakers, industry experts and BKS members to examine strategic priorities and opportunities in the critical minerals sector. Opening remarks were delivered by Rupert Goodman OBE DL, Chairman of the British-Kazakh Society, and Ruslan Karabulov, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the UK. The keynote address was given by Her Excellency Sally Axworthy MBE, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan, highlighting Kazakhstan’s role in global critical minerals supply chains. Christopher Allum - Senior Business Origination Officer at UK Export Finance also provided a very comprehensive speech.

The discussion was moderated by Enzo Satkuru-Granzella, Senior Analyst from Critical Minerals Association, and concluded with closing remarks from David Skeels, Director of the British-Kazakh Society. The event concluded with networking, allowing participants to exchange views and strengthen professional connections.