Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has expressed concern overthe Newcrest Mining issue and its implications for the resource sector.
O’Neill is concerned that operations in PNG may be massively affected by the decline in gold prices and its impact on Newcrest Mining’s shares.
O’Neill said Newcrest wasthe largest operator in PNG rsquo;s mining sector and it was vital thatthe company continued to make that contribution at Lihir Gold inthe New Ireland Province and atthe Hidden Valley and Wafi projects inthe Morobe Province.
The Prime Ministersaid National Government would seek a briefing from Newcrest Mining to see what kind of assistance and support it can offer tothe company.
This is following reports thatthe company is facing serious challenges with its projects, including those in PNG
Reuters said Newcrestowhich is Australia'’s biggest gold miner, announced on Friday that it would write downthe value of mines in Australia, Papua New Guineaand Africa.
Mr. O’Neill saidthPNG government would discuss withthe company, possible assistance to ensurethe company’PNG projects remained fully functional.
He was confident thatthe Moody’s rating agency’s assessment oPNG is constantoand thaPNG will continue to deliverthe right climate for investors.
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