Wadephul's visit to Bolivia: starting signal for new raw material alliances!

Wadephul's visit to Bolivia: starting signal for new raw material alliances!

Today, November 11, 2025, Germany sent an important signal for cooperation with Bolivia. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul traveled to Santa Cruz de la Sierra, where he expressed his support for the country's new political beginning on the first official day of the new President Paz Pereira. Wadephul's visit is the first by such a high-level delegation in 15 years and is seen by President Paz as significant for Bolivia's future direction. Both countries could find common ground on trade and energy policy issues.

Wadephul expressed optimism about the new government and praised Paz's efforts to open Bolivia to the international community. He emphasized the great potential for closer economic cooperation, especially in the area of ​​rare earths. The lithium industry is particularly interesting because Bolivia is estimated to have the largest lithium deposits in the world, with a volume of around 23 million tons. This resource is crucial for the production of electric mobility, and demand could increase to 3-4 million tons by 2030, as ZDF reports.

Looking for new partnerships

Wadephul also met with Santa Cruz Gov. Luis Fernando Camacho, who is pushing for greater autonomy for the lowlands. However, Camacho has also faced legal difficulties as he faces several criminal cases over his opposition to the previous government. Wadephul also discussed foreign direct investment opportunities and legal support for President Paz's federal reform in Bolivia. Despite the challenges of lithium production, which experts say is more complex than in neighboring countries such as Chile or Argentina, he sees new opportunities in cooperation with Bolivia.

However, there are apparently obstacles. The industrialization of lithium in the Andean salt lakes is stalling and a joint venture between Bolivia and German companies failed in 2019 due to distrust from the population. Indigenous communities, particularly in Nor Lipez, have also raised concerns about a lack of consultation on lithium contracts and opposed corporate access.

Looking into the future

Despite these hurdles, politicians and companies in Bolivia are determined to develop lithium resources. President Paz has already announced that he will review existing agreements with Russia and China and hopes that the EU-Mercosur agreement can strengthen economic relations. In addition, Bolivia was recognized as a new member of the Southern Common Market at the end of 2023. This could bring new impetus to trade and promote the nation's economic success.

Former Federal President Christian Wulff was also present at the swearing-in of President Paz, who emphasized Bolivia's role as an important Amazon country for climate protection. These political upheavals in Bolivia could be important for both the geographical and economic framework for lithium mining and international cooperation.

On a completely different note, musician Billie Eilish recently announced her global tour for 2026, starting in cities like Los Angeles and New York. The anticipation of her “Echoes in Silence” tour, which promises a mix of innovative stage technology and musical evolution, is causing excitement around the world and speaks to Eilish's commitment to environmental protection. Those interested should note January 4th, 2026 for advance ticket sales!

These exciting developments in both international politics and the music landscape show that we are in times of change and opportunity. The coming months will be crucial to see how the dynamics between Bolivia and Germany develop and how the world reacts to the changes in music. Stay tuned!