International Mining

Kolkata, Nov 4 (UNI) Offering an opportunity for the Indian mining and minerals sector to access Australian technology and expertise in this field, the 9th International Mining and Machinery Exhibition (IMME) begins here tomorrow with Australia participating as " The Focus Country." The four-day IMME 2008 is the biggest mining event the Australian government is participating globally this year with a delegation of 50 companies.

Interacting with mediapersons on the eve of IMME here, Australian Minister for Resources, Energy and Tourism Martin Ferguson said the exhibition would showcase Australia's global leadership position in mining technology and services.

" Australia is at the forefront in developing innovative technologies for mining as over 60 per cent of the world's mines operate with Australian designed mining software and mine management systems," Mr Ferguson observed.

Hailing Indo-Australian cooperation in mining and minerals sector, Mr Ferguson pointed out that India's mining and resource processing companies had already identified the benefits of Australia, both through the establishment of long-term supply contracts and direct investment in Australia's expertise, high quality deposits and competitive transportation costs.

" Together, India and Australia have put in place mechanisms to further reinforce commercial and technical linkages and IMME, 2008 will accelerate the ongoing process," he maintained.

Mr Ferguson informed that as part of Australian participation at IMME,2008, a mining mission from his country was visiting 2 mines in West Bengal to take stock of the practices and technologies used by Indian mines.

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