JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – ASX-listed Alara Resources, which focuses on mining in the Middle East, says it is well on track with the development of a low-cost copper/gold project at Washihi, in the northern region of Oman.
The company believes that the legislative environment in Oman bodes well for its plans, noting that meeting with Public Authority of Mining of the Sultanate of Oman is scheduled for the last week of August.
“This will provide a timely opportunity to positively address the project’s position on environment and community issues, while highlighting key findings from the feasibility study and downstream benefits that will flow from the project,” Alara said in a statement.
Washihi’s indicated resource of 6.84-million tons, at a grade 0.9% copper and 0.17 g/t gold, can only be converted into a reserve after a mining licence is issued.
The company further lauded Oman, noting that the country was prioritising the development of the mining industry and ease of business through its new mining law, currently in its approval process by relevant Ministries.
“The new law is expected to help attract investment to develop the mining sector into a major contributor to the country’s gross domestic product,” the company said.