Barrick Mining regains operational control of Loulo-Gounkoto mine in Mali

Core Viewpoint - Barrick Mining has regained operational control of the Loulo-Gounkoto mine in Mali after a two-year standoff, which included a settlement agreement with the Malian government [1][3]. Group 1: Operational Control and Gold Restitution - Barrick Mining will receive three tonnes of gold from the authorities in Mali as part of the agreement [1]. - The restitution of the seized gold, which was confiscated earlier this year, is expected to proceed following the completion of legal proceedings [2]. - The gold return is described as a procedural formality [2]. Group 2: Settlement and Dispute Resolution - The dispute was resolved after Barrick agreed to a settlement of CFA Fr244 billion (approximately $437 million) and withdrew its arbitration claims against Mali [3]. - In exchange for the settlement, the Malian government agreed to drop its charges against Barrick [3]. - Operations at the Loulo-Gounkoto gold mine resumed in October after being halted for over nine months [3]. Group 3: Company Profile and Recent Developments - Barrick is a gold and copper producer with a global portfolio, focusing on high-margin, long-life assets [4]. - The company recently completed the divestiture of its interests in the Tongon gold mine and selected exploration assets in Côte d'Ivoire to Atlantic Group [4].