In search of critical raw materials for Poland: Republic of the Congo - Geology, mineral resources potential, concession condi-tions

For its development, Polish economy needs a number of mineral raw materials that are notpresent in the country. An important way to increase the country's raw material security is to search for the necessary raw materials abroad. Among such countries is the Republic ofthe Congo. Advantageous geographic location with access to the Atlantic Ocean, thepresence ofgeo-logical structures rich in various mineral resources, such as tin, tungsten, coltan (Ta-Nb ore), polymetals (Cu-Pb-Zn), iron (BIF deposits), potassium salts andphosphate rock, as well as favourable legal regulations promotingforeign investments, make the Republic ofthe Congo a country with which Poland should cooperate in the field ofraw materials and mining Industries. A relatively smali part ofthe Republic ofthe Congo is well explored, but the potential of undiscovered mineral resources is very large. Poland, having a well-educated cadre ofgeologists, can and should share its experiences with specialists working in the geological survey ofthe Republic ofthe Congo. Such cooperation can bring many benefits to both cooperating countries.