Sweden's Minister for Business, Ebba Busch, welcomes LKAB's decision to expand mining operations in Kiruna, which will require relocating 6,000 residents. The government is in dialogue with local authorities to ensure a smooth transition, emphasizing the importance of state involvement and LKAB's responsibility in compensating affected property owners. Busch highlights the strategic importance of reducing Europe's dependency on critical raw materials from China.
Ebba Busch Applauds LKAB's Expansion in Kiruna
Ebba Busch Applauds LKAB's Expansion in Kiruna
Sweden's Minister for Business, Ebba Busch (KD), views LKAB's announcement to expand mining operations positively.
The news that an additional 6,000 people will need to relocate to a new district in Kiruna came as a shock on Thursday. The government was in contact with local authorities this morning for discussions.
"It's positive that LKAB continues to make significant investments in Norrbotten. This will lay the foundation for jobs for decades to come and help secure Sweden's and Europe's independence from dangerous states," says Ebba Busch in her initial reaction to LKAB's announcement.
At the same time, she understands the concerns of Kiruna residents about having to relocate parts of the city once again.
"It's incredibly important that we ensure the best possible outcome for all affected residents.
"At the same time, I believe Kiruna truly proves that it can handle, in a very tough situation, the implementation of changes," she says, mentioning the recent relocation of the church.
State Involvement
Busch states that she and her team are in close contact with LKAB and the municipal leadership. To relocate an additional 6,000 people, state land will need to be utilized, and this is not something Ebba Busch rules out.
"We have been an important part of the urban transformation from the state's side so far and will continue to be.
"We truly understand the dilemma here, that it's difficult to prioritize between different national interests. And it's a challenge because the municipality owns a small portion of its area. But I believe we can find a good way forward here in dialogue together."
At the same time, she points out that LKAB has the major responsibility here. The mining company promises to compensate all affected property owners and be part of the development of the new district.
"It's a necessity, I want to emphasize that," says Ebba Busch.
"To Serve Kiruna Residents"
However, LKAB's CEO Jan Moström does not rule out the possibility of the company taking even more land in 20–30 years.
Busch notes that Europe is heavily dependent on China for critical raw materials and that Sweden can strengthen its independence.
"Mines in Sweden should serve the Swedish people. They should serve the residents of Kiruna and the surrounding area," she says.