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Understanding resource-backed financing: How countries leverage mineral wealth for economic growth

Professor of Energy and the Environment Saleem Ali talks about a possible Ukraine-U.S. mineral deal.

Feb 25, 2025

1 min

Saleem Ali

What exactly is resourced-backed financing and how does it relate to Ukraine-United States relations?


That is what Blue and Gold Distinguished Professor of Energy and the Environment Saleem Ali has been investigating.  


Resource-backed financing has emerged as a significant strategy for countries rich in natural resources to bolster economic growth. This financial model allows nations to leverage their mineral wealth by using future revenues or production of resources as collateral for obtaining loans or investments today. Ali can put this practice into context of a potential deal that is currently being negotiated between Ukraine and the U.S. 


"The minerals deal could potentially be a win-win for Ukraine and the United States if the agreement is framed around a broader plan for reconstruction and infrastructure development," Ali recently said in an article for Forbes. 


A regular contributor to Forbes, Ali's expertise has also been featured in The Houston Chronicle, The Guardian and Bloomberg. He can be contacted to speak more on this topic by clicking on his profile. 

Connect with:
Saleem Ali

Saleem Ali

Professor of Energy and the Environment Geography and Spatial Sciences; Biden School of Public Policy and Administration

Prof. Ali's research examines the causes and consequences of environmental conflicts.

Environmental HealthEnvironmental PolicyEnvironmental PlanningHealth and Safety

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