10 May 2016

Solomons to reallocate nickel prospecting license

2:56 pm on 10 May 2016
Axiom drilling activity on Isabel Nickel Project.

Axiom drilling activity on Isabel Nickel Project. Photo: Supplied

The Solomon Islands government says it will soon seek expressions of interest for prospecting rights to high grade nickel deposits in Isabel Province.

The rights to prospect and develop the deposit have been at the centre of one of the longest running legal battles in the country's history.

Both Sumitomo Metal Mining Ltd and Axiom KB have claimed ownership of the tenement, with the latter securing the rights last September before the Appeals Court rendered all existing licences void.

In a public notice, the Ministry of Mines said it was committed to an inclusive, transparent process to avoid further legal implications and delays.

Axiom KB has reiterated its intentions of resuming operations on Isabel whilst Sumitomo has yet to make its intentions clear.

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