CNURA Gov't Wants More Mining In The Country

CNURA Gov't Wants More Mining In The Country

The Coalition for National Unity and Rural Advancement (CNURA) government is encouraging more investment in the mining industry in Solomon Islands.

Minister for Mines and Energy, Edward Huni'ehu made the remark when he accompanied Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua on his first official visit to the Gold Ridge Mine in Central Guadalcanal yesterday.

He said the Gold Ridge Mine and the Isabel nickel prospecting are two key components for economic growth.

Currently, the economy is heavily supported by logging and the government is turning its focus on to mining as the engine for economic growth.

Mr Huni'ehu said his ministry has executed a plan for more prospecting in the Gold Ridge mine.

Mining and exploration company Australian Solomons Gold Limited is currently working to revive the Gold Ridge Mine in the interior of Guadalcanal. .

The mine was operated by former owners Ross Mining which was forced to close in 2000 during the ethnic tension. The mine site suffered considerable damage on its million dollar facilities.

Mr Huniehu said the Prime Minister's visit was arranged at the right time because his new Government sees mining as one of the key developments for the country.

Mr Huniehu said the Government is working hard to remove any obstacles to the development of mining.

This included encouraging investors to come to Solomon Islands and do more prospecting for minerals.

"My ministry is ready to support any application from investors who are interested in mineral prospecting in the country," he said.

ENDS

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