Southeast Asian countries and China shared a unique geological setting, lying within the two major global mineralization domains of Tethys and the Pacific Rim. This shared background not only fosters common research interests but also underscores their joint responsibility in advancing sustainable resource development. In recent years, the “State Key Laboratory of Critical Mineral Research and Exploration” of the Institute of Geochemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences(hereinafter referred to as the Institute of Geochemistry) has expanded its focus from southwestern China to Southeast Asia.By deciphering mineralization patterns and promoting mineral exploration from a global perspective, the laboratory has transitioned from regional initiatives to international collaboration.
On May 6th, 2025, the International Symposium on Magmatism and Mineralization in Southeast Asia was held at the Institute of Geochemistry, marking the official launch of the “Research Center of Southeast Asian Mineral Resources”. The director of the center is Yang Jiehua, who also serves as director of the Department of Science & Technology and Planning at the Institute. Its deputy directors are Dr. Mao Wei and Dr. Liu Liang. The symposium brought together experts from research institutes, and universities across Southeast Asia and China. The establishment of the center reflects a commitment to theoretical breakthrough, technological innovation, and mutually beneficial cooperation.
The opening ceremony of the Research Center of Southeast Asian Mineral Resources(Image by IGCAS)
The symposium opened with Researcher Zhou Meifu presiding over the ceremony. Academician Hu Ruizhong delivered a welcome address, expressing sincere appreciation to all the distinguished participants for their presence at this important gathering. Feng Xinbin, director of the Institute of Geochemistry, gave a comprehensive overview of the Institute’s 60-year legacy and recent scientific breakthroughs. Zhao Junhong, director of “State Key Laboratory of Critical Mineral Research and Exploration” made a detailed presentation on the planning and layout of the laboratory. Director Yang Jiehua reported on the proposed construction framework of the Research Center. During the symposium, a significant milestone was achieved when the Institute of Geochemistry signed a cooperation agreement with the University of the Philippines. After that, the research center was officially inaugurated, with Secretary-General Wei Qifeng of the China-ASEAN Geoscience Cooperation Center offering congratulatory remarks and highlighting the center’s potential for advancing regional scientific cooperation. Finally, the leading experts exchanged insights on cutting-edge research in Southeast Asian magmatic processes and mineralization mechanisms. These discussions are expected to contribute substantially to the field of geosciences and regional resource development.
Signing Ceremony between Institute of Geochemistry, CAS and University of the Philippines(Image by IGCAS)
The symposium successfully established a significant platform for deep cooperation between China and Southeast Asian countries in earth sciences, while promoting innovative approaches to sustainable mineral resource utilization and geological research advancement.
Group photo of the symposium(Image by IGCAS)
(By general office/ Luo Li)
