A brief but factual article.
AVZ Minerals Limited (AVZ) has raised concerns over the purported transformation of Research Permit PR15775 into an Exploitation Permit by Manono Lithium SAS,
copperbeltkatangamining.com
Mining in DRC Battery Metals Lithium Mining Projects
AVZ MINERALS ASSERTS LEGAL RIGHTS AMID MANONO LITHIUM PERMIT DISPUTE
SEPTEMBER 29, 2024 CONSTANCE
AVZ Minerals Limited (AVZ) has raised concerns over the purported transformation of Research Permit PR15775 into an Exploitation Permit by Manono Lithium SAS, a joint venture between Jinxiang Lithium Limited (a subsidiary of Zijin Mining Group) and Congolaise D’Exploitation Miniere SA (Cominière).
AVZ asserts that PR15775 overlaps the northern portion of PR13359, a permit the company claims legal rights to through its majority stake in Dathcom Mining SA.
AVZ refers to provisional orders from the International Centre for Settlement Disputes (ICSID) arbitration proceedings (ICSID Case No. ARB/23/20).
These orders, disclosed in January and May 2024, bind the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to recognize Dathcom as the rightful holder of PR13359 and safeguard AVZ’s rights and those of its subsidiaries during the ongoing arbitration.
The company argues that Cominière’s relinquishment of the northern section of PR13359 and the subsequent granting of PR15775 to Manono Lithium violate the ICSID orders, making any attempt to transform PR15775 into an Exploitation Permit illegal.
AVZ is committed to resolving the dispute through legal means unless a negotiated settlement with the DRC government is reached.
APPOINTMENT OF CORPORATE STRATEGY CONSULTANT
In a related development, AVZ has appointed Yianni (John) Demetre as an advisor to assist its board of directors with shareholder advocacy, communications, and corporate strategy.
Demetre, a longtime shareholder and successful entrepreneur, expressed his commitment to protecting the Manono Project from external attempts to seize control.
He emphasized the importance of clear communication with shareholders and resolving the disputes delaying the project’s development.
Demetre aims to maximize shareholder value by addressing misinformation and ensuring a swift and fair resolution to AVZ’s ongoing challenges.