Skopje, 25 January 2025 (MIA) - Minister of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources, Sanja Bozhinovska, visited on Saturday the Sasa mine, the largest underground lead and zinc mine in the country, which produces approximately 800,000 tons of ore annually. During her meeting with the mine's managerial team, Bozhinovska expressed her support for sustainable and safe mining practices and emphasized the importance of innovation in the mining industry.

“Sasa mine is an important part of country’s economy. Support for these projects is crucial for sustainable development and improving the living conditions of the local community. As a minister, my goal is to support mining practices that are sustainable and safe, and to emphasize the importance of innovation in mining. With the support of modern technologies, we aim to create a mining sector that is both safe and sustainable,” Bozhinovska said.

The Ministry reported that Sasa employs about 770 people directly, with most of them being local residents. Over the past six years, the mine’s successful operations have enabled it to contribute over US$85 million in taxes, which have been used to support the country’s development and improve the quality of life for its citizens.

The Sasa mine general director, Christopher Colburn, noted that over the past six years, as part of Central Asia Metals, an international mining company, more than US$80 million has been invested in capital projects, modern mining equipment, digitalization, and improving safety, standards and working conditions at the mine.

“Minister Bozhinovska’s visit, as the head of such an important ministry, is of particular significance for us at Sasa. She is an integral part of our ongoing communication and cooperation with both central and local institutions, which is crucial for Sasa’s future achievements. Our aim is to execute our investment plans and projects to ensure a safe, environmentally responsible, and stable operation at Sasa, providing well-being for our employees and their families, supporting the local community, and contributing to the overall prosperity of the country,” Colburn said.

Bozhinovska also visited the underground mine corridors, where she discussed the miners’ experiences and challenges. The workers highlighted that safety on the field is a top priority and that they are continuously working to improve working conditions.

“The miners are at the core of this mine. Their safety and job satisfaction are key to the successful operation of Sasa,” Bozhinovska said.

Photo: Ministry of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources