Partnerships will define the future of critical minerals, says Darío Zegarra at WMC 2026

Speaking at the opening of the second day of the World Mining Congress 2026 in Lima, the former President of the Peruvian Institute of Mining Engineers (IIMP) and Vice President of WMC 2026 delivered a compelling message to more than 70 countries represented at one of the world’s largest mining gatherings. As demand for minerals essential to electrification, digitalization, advanced manufacturing and the global energy transition continues to grow, mining faces a challenge unlike any before: producing more resources while earning greater trust, embracing innovation and strengthening international cooperation.

The question is no longer whether more minerals are needed

Zegarra challenged delegates to rethink the industry’s priorities. „The question is no longer whether the world will need more minerals. We already know it will. The real challenge is whether we will be able to produce more, and produce better.”

Those words capture the defining challenge facing governments, mining companies and investors alike. Expanding production alone will not be enough. Future competitiveness will depend on operational excellence, environmental performance, technological innovation and the ability to build resilient global supply chains.

Trust is becoming mining’s most valuable asset

One of the strongest themes emerging from Zegarra’s address was the growing strategic importance of trust. He argued that collaboration between governments, industry, academia and local communities has become a prerequisite for securing the critical minerals required by modern economies. „Trust has become a strategic asset. Without it, processes become slower, innovation loses momentum, and resilient supply chains simply cannot be built.”

From resources to resilience

According to Zegarra, the next generation of mining leaders will be those capable of combining world-class mineral resources with world-class governance. He called on governments to strengthen institutions, uphold the rule of law and ensure that mining investment translates into sustainable development and broader opportunities for society. At the same time, he emphasized the need to invest in people and innovation. „We have a historic opportunity driven by the world’s growing demand for minerals. We must seize it by strengthening talent, fostering innovation, and building a mining industry that creates development and prosperity for future generations.”

More Than a Congress

Since its first edition in Warsaw in 1958, the World Mining Congress has served as the leading international platform for dialogue between industry, governments, academia and technology leaders. This year’s gathering in Lima demonstrates why that mission remains more relevant than ever.