Ukraine and the UK strengthen their commitment to geological cooperation
A new Memorandum of Understanding reaffirms the UK’s support of Ukraine’s ambitions to develop its critical mineral resources, paving the way for collaboration through capacity-building programmes.
10/06/2026 By BGS Press
Ukraine and the UK have reaffirmed their strategic partnership with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on geological science and resource development. The agreement underscores a shared commitment to Ukraine’s long-term economic recovery while deepening bilateral ties. Amid increasing global demand for critical minerals essential for technologies such as renewable energy systems, batteries and electronics, it also signals a growing focus on the role of natural resources in strengthening economic resilience and energy security.
The MoU focuses on expanding collaboration between the geological surveys of both the UK and Ukraine in areas such as digital transformation, research and institutional capacity strengthening. By enhancing cooperation across these areas, both countries aim to improve their understanding of geological resources while fostering more effective and modern approaches to managing them.
The MoU also coincides with the presentation of Ukraine’s new Critical Minerals Strategy, which the UK helped to develop, further demonstrating its commitment to Ukraine’s long-term economic and industrial future.
The MoU represents far more than a formal partnership. At a time when global challenges demand collective action, the strengthening of scientific and technical ties between our institutions is both timely and essential. This agreement reflects our shared belief that science can be a powerful bridge between countries and our shared commitment to not only scientific excellence but also growth, resilience and long-term prosperity.
Dr Maggy Heintz, director of BGS International Geoscience
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