Barrick Update on Loulo-Gounkoto Operations in Mali
06 January 2025 - 11:00PM
Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE:GOLD)(TSX:ABX) remains restricted
from shipping gold from its Loulo-Gounkoto mining complex in Mali.
In addition, an interim attachment order has now been issued
against the existing gold stock on site which further prevents its
export and disrupts normal operations. Barrick believes the interim
attachment order is unwarranted and is in contravention of the
agreed dispute resolution mechanisms.
Barrick’s president and CEO Mark Bristow says
the inability to ship gold not only affects operations but has
broader implications for the local economy, the 8,000 employees and
its many local service providers. If this issue is not resolved
within the coming week, Barrick will have no choice but to
temporarily suspend operations at Loulo-Gounkoto. Such an action
would be deeply regrettable but necessary, as previously
reported.
“Barrick remains committed to constructive
engagement with the Government of Mali to resolve the existing
disputes amicably. As previously disclosed, we have initiated
arbitration through the International Centre for the Settlement of
Investment Disputes (ICSID) as a recognized mechanism to address
these matters of disagreement while maintaining the integrity of
existing agreements,” said Bristow.
“In parallel, Barrick continues its efforts to
reach an agreement with the Mali government on a memorandum of
agreement to resolve the existing disputes, redefine the
partnership’s future and increase the State’s share of benefits
from the Loulo-Gounkoto complex.”
He noted the situation was further compounded by
the continued detention, on unfounded charges, of several of
Barrick’s Malian employees and the company was actively working to
secure their release and ensure their well-being. The company
reiterated its commitment to the safety and rights of its workforce
as a critical priority.
“Barrick continues to be a steadfast partner to
Mali and its people, contributing significantly to the country’s
economic and social development over nearly three decades. We are
committed to dialogue and finding a mutually acceptable resolution
that allows us to secure the future of Loulo-Gounkoto as a vital
economic contributor to Mali,” Bristow said.
Barrick enquiriesInvestor and
media relationsKathy du Plessis+44 20 7557 7738Email:
barrick@dpapr.com
Website: www.barrick.com
Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking
InformationCertain information contained or incorporated
by reference in this press release, including any information as to
our strategy, projects, plans, or future financial or operating
performance, constitutes “forward-looking statements”. All
statements, other than statements of historical fact, are
forward-looking statements. The words “continue”, “intended”,
“committed”, “engage”, “negotiate”, “pursue” and similar
expressions identify forward-looking statements. In particular,
this press release contains forward-looking statements including,
without limitation, with respect to: the outcome of dispute
resolution through arbitration; the status of negotiations with the
Government of Mali in respect of ongoing disputes regarding the
Loulo-Gounkoto Complex and Barrick’s commitment to reach a mutually
acceptable solution; the potential to increase the Government of
Mali’s share in the economic benefits of Loulo-Gounkoto; and
Loulo-Gounkoto’s partnership with the Government of Mali.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based
upon a number of estimates and assumptions including material
estimates and assumptions related to the factors set forth below
that, while considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of
this press release in light of management’s experience and
perception of current conditions and expected developments, are
inherently subject to significant business, economic, and
competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown
factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those
projected in the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance
should not be placed on such statements and information. Such
factors include, but are not limited to: changes in national and
local government legislation, taxation, controls or regulations
and/ or changes in the administration of laws, policies and
practices; expropriation or nationalization of property and
political or economic developments in Mali and other jurisdictions
in which the Company or its affiliates do or may carry on business
in the future; fluctuations in the spot and forward price of gold,
copper, or certain other commodities (such as diesel fuel, natural
gas, and electricity); the speculative nature of mineral
exploration and development; changes in mineral production
performance, exploitation, and exploration successes; risks related
to disruption of supply routes which may cause delays in
construction and mining activities, including disruptions in the
supply of key mining inputs due to the invasion of Ukraine by
Russia and conflicts in the Middle East; risk of loss due to acts
of war, terrorism, sabotage and civil disturbances; risks
associated with new diseases, epidemics and pandemics; litigation
and legal and administrative proceedings; employee relations
including loss of key employees; increased costs and physical and
transition risks related to climate change, including extreme
weather events, resource shortages, emerging policies and increased
regulations related to greenhouse gas emission levels, energy
efficiency and reporting of risks; and availability and increased
costs associated with mining inputs and labor. In addition, there
are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral
exploration, development and mining, including environmental
hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations,
pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion, copper cathode or
gold or copper concentrate losses (and the risk of inadequate
insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these
risks).
Many of these uncertainties and contingencies
can affect our actual results and could cause actual results to
differ materially from those expressed or implied in any
forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers
are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of
future performance. All of the forward-looking statements made in
this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements.
Specific reference is made to the most recent Form 40-F/Annual
Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial
securities regulatory authorities for a more detailed discussion of
some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements and the
risks that may affect Barrick’s ability to achieve the expectations
set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this press
release.
Barrick disclaims any intention or obligation to
update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result
of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required
by applicable law.
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