Ivanhoe Mines founder Robert Friedland declared copper's future remains bright during his interview at Africa's premier mining conference. Speaking to Bloomberg's Jennifer Zabasajja at The African Mining Indaba in Cape Town on Feb. 9, Friedland shared his optimistic outlook on the base metal despite market volatility.

The annual gathering serves as the continent's leading platform for deal-making and investment in mining resources. Friedland addressed critical industry topics including current metals pricing, mounting copper demand, and challenges in securing capital for mineral development projects across Africa.

Friedland further suggested that potential Federal Reserve rate cuts could strengthen precious and base metals against the US dollar. His comments reflect growing confidence among mining executives that copper fundamentals remain strong, particularly as global infrastructure and renewable energy projects drive sustained demand for the red metal.