The Papua New Guinea Government has approved the environmental permit for the Wafi Golpu mine in the Morobe province.
Prime Minister James Marape said this now paves way for further negotiations between the developer, state, the landowners, and other stakeholders concerned.
He said this does not indicate the mine will begin operations but ensures further dialogue and negotiations of terms and conditions relating to the benefits of the mine.
The issue of Deep-Sea Tailings will also be in these discussions.
Mr. Marape said the government did not rush into agreements with developers, because they do not want implications, especially when dealing with provincial governments and landowners in the future.
He said his government aims to do things right so all parties concerned are satisfied, and the issuing of this Permit is the first step in that direction.
The Morobe Governor Ginson Saonu expressed satisfaction, saying this is the type of arrangement he has been advocating for.
NBC News/ Pacific Mining Watch
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