Core Insights - Rio Tinto has been selected as the preferred partner for the Salares Altoandinos lithium project in northern Chile by the National Mining Company of Chile (ENAMI) [1] - The proposal includes Rio Tinto acquiring an initial 51% stake in the project, with ENAMI retaining the remaining shares [1] - The agreement is subject to the signing of a binding contract, regulatory approvals, and other customary closing conditions [1] Financial Commitment - Rio Tinto plans to invest approximately $425 million in cash and non-cash contributions, which will include its Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology [1] - The cash investment will be disbursed in phases to fund the pre-feasibility study and further research [1] Future Steps - Rio Tinto will advance pre-feasibility and feasibility studies to make a final investment decision [1]