MOROBE Governor Ginson Saonu wants the Wafi-Golpu project to get the same benefit sharing arrangement like that of the new Porgera mine.
He said the Porgera agreement of 51 per cent ownership by PNG stakeholders was positive news for upcoming discussions for Wafi-Golpu.
“I am optimistic we will have a much more superior arrangement coming out of Wafi-Golpu,” he said.
“We have learnt, but there is still much more to be done as we as a country and for our Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister James Marape and Pangu Pati, to own our resource projects and strive towards economic independence.” Saonu said Morobe wanted to lead the way and saw Wafi-Golpu as the catalyst for this change that would see the development of more businesses and other economic benefits.
He said the Morobe government was now finalising the review of their position paper given the many new developments.
Saonu said he intended to deliver this to the National Government this month and prepare for the mining development discussions and also on the benefits for the province and the landowners.
“Our position is that we want all stakeholders to benefit equitably,” he said.
“The developer, the Government, the Morobe government, landowners and Morobe province.
“This Wafi-Golpu mine is a significant mine in the region and it is important all parties are happy to move this project.”
Saonu said the Morobe government’s position on the deep sea tailing placement and court matters remained
The National / Pacific Mining Watch