Metals and minerals are vital for the sustainable functioning of modern societies. Access to minerals at reasonable prices is necessary for the effective functioning of the EU's economy. In November 2008, the Commission submitted to the Parliament and the Council of Ministers its "Communication on the Raw Materials Initiative - Meeting our critical needs for growth and jobs in Europe". Ensuring reliable, and secure access to raw materials is increasingly becoming an important factor for the competitiveness of the EU and is thus of vital importance for fulfilling the Lisbon Partnership goals of growth and employment.

At the conference, focus will be put on the promotion of sustainable supplies of raw materials from European sources and measures related to Council conclusions