Leonel Fernández calls for transparency in rare earths management

Santo Domingo.- Former Dominican President and Fuerza del Pueblo (FP) leader Leonel Fernández has urged the government to ensure transparency and proper management of the country’s rare earth reserves, a critical resource for global industries such as technology, energy, and defense. His statement follows growing interest in 17 strategic elements, highlighted during a recent visit by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Fernández outlined several key measures, including public transparency on exploration and contracts, expanding the Board of Directors of the Dominican Mining Company (EMIDOM) to include national experts, and creating a legal framework to regulate rare earth exploitation. He also called for investments in specialized education, scholarships for mining professionals, and increased funding for scientific research through the National Fund for Innovation and Scientific and Technological Development (FONDOCYT).

Additionally, he proposed that the government submit annual reports to Congress on rare earth projects and financial statements and establish an observatory to monitor and promote research on these resources. Fernández emphasized that these steps are crucial for safeguarding national interests amid the growing global demand for rare earths.