The Cook Islands announced on Wednesday that they have signed an agreement with the United States with respect to their marine background rich in minerals, which had opened before China to explore.
Companies in the mining sector one day expect to win billions by extracting the seabed of the polymetallic nodules, with the size of a potato loaded with manganese, cobalt, copper or nickel. So many materials that have become essential for the global economy. Faced with environmental defenders, this process will delight ecosystems.
The Cook Islands and the United States “agreed to cooperate more in depth in the responsible management of the minerals of the underwater floor, with a commitment to scientific progress, mutual prosperity, economic autonomy and environmental management,” he explained to the government of the small Pacific archipelago. He assured a “responsible development” of his underwater wealth.
Polymetallic nodules
“Submarine floor minerals are crucial to develop and feed today and tomorrow’s technology,” the US State Department reacted. Cobalt and nickel are used in particular in the manufacture of advanced military batteries or technologies.
At the end of February, the Cook Islands had revealed an agreement to explore their seabed with China, which seeks to extend its influence in Oceania. The micro-state claims one of the most important deposits of the world’s polytallic nodules. Although the exploration of the seabed is very advanced, no business or countries have begun to produce on a commercial scale.
Source: BFM TV
