Equinox Resources’ (ASX:EQN) CEO Zac Komur recently engaged in talks with Mayor Zé Cocá of Jequié and his ministerial team regarding the Campo Grande Rare Earths Project.
The company says the collaboration signifies a crucial advancement, earning the full support and endorsement from Mayor Cocá, highlighting a mutual dedication to sustainable development and community prosperity.
Throughout the discussions, the focus was on utilising the project to bolster critical infrastructure under construction and foster community development initiatives.
Equinox says this partnership extends beyond mere business expansion, aiming instead to cultivate a legacy of positive transformation and growth within the region.
Reflecting on this pivotal engagement, a reinforced commitment to a partnership based on mutual respect and aligned objectives is evident, with aspirations to perpetuate the project’s benefits for future generations.
On the back of these talks, Equinox Resources has now started its maiden drilling program at the Rio Negro prospect, part of the Campo Grande Project in the province of Bahia, Brazil.
Komur says the progress made with the Campo Grande Project is not just notable “it’s a testament to the power of speed and precision in action”.
“Our ability to assemble an exploration team rapidly, setup a Brazilian identity, embark on an extensive surface sampling campaign, establish a base in Jequié, secure the necessary environmental permits, negotiate land access, finalise a drilling contract, and get commitment and support from community and streamline communication with labs for sample analyses, speaks volumes about our efficiency and competency.
I want to acknowledge the pioneering culture behind staking this project. It’s the result of diligent groundwork, a keen eye on the geology, and a strategic approach to staking virgin territory. The pace at which we’ve moved forward is not just impressive; it’s exemplary.
Being part of the inaugural drill team was a remarkable experience, emphasizing the significance of the program we’ve initiated. This program is crucial for defining the mineralisation extent at the Rio Negro Prospect.
Our strategy, which involves the deployment of three auger teams, is designed for speed and cost-effectiveness, targeting the higher-grade REE ore zone directly. As we extend our surface sampling activities across the broad expanses of the Campo Grande Project, our vision broadens with the aim of unveiling new opportunities. This pursuit enables us to conduct multiple exploration campaigns throughout the project’s vast terrain simultaneously.
Our methodology is not just about expanding our geographical footprint; it’s a testament to our commitment to exploration that is responsible, efficient, cost-effective, and adds real value.”
CEO Komur engaged in critical meetings with key figures in Brazil’s mining and energy agency.
The company says the primary goal of these discussions was to present Equinox Resources’ activities within Brazil.
The meetings addressed several challenges facing the Brazilian mining industry, including obstacles encountered by laboratories and potential areas for improvement.
A significant focus was placed on the intricacies of the permitting processes, with Agência Nacional de Mineração (ANM) expressing a desire to streamline these procedures to facilitate foreign investment.
Write to Adam Orlando at Mining.com.au
Images: Equinox
