Photo: Barrick Logo
Barrick (Niugini) Limited (BNL), in response to a recent media article that the Port Moresby BNL office would operate out of Perth, Australia, is not accurate. BNL would like to clarify that the Port Moresby Office will continue to be the Head of Country office for its operations in Papua New Guinea, after the incorporation of New Porgera Limited.
Barrick President and Chief Executive officer, Mark Bristow, explained that Barrick recently opened a Perth Office for Barrick’s Asia Pacific growth operations.
“Barrick has recognized the potential for the mining industry in the Asia Pacific region with current operations in Papua New Guinea and Pakistan. We are looking at other mines throughout Asia Pacific, and the new Barrick office in Perth will allow for our move into the region. As for the Porgera Mine, our head office for all of Papua New Guinea operations is Port Moresby and will continue to be after the Shareholders Agreement is fully executed.”
Bristow said that Barrick’s approach is to ensure that the countries in which Barrick has primary operations, is managed by citizens of that country. For PNG, the Porgera Project Commencement Agreement ensures a greater participation by its citizens and the State.
Speaking from Port Moresby Bristow said, “The Porgera Project Commencement Agreement shows our genuine intention to nation building here in Papua New Guinea. On top of the 51% equity to PNG stakeholders, of which 10% is protected equity for Project-impacted landowners, we are committed to building a predominantly PNG national workforce at Porgera Mine - and refining our approach to localizing our supply and business contracts.”
Mark Bristow, who was in country this week, stated that once Mineral Resource Enga Limited signs the Shareholders Agreement and other associated agreements, the long awaited economic benefits for the country will flow.
Article courtesy of Barrick
