Pioneer Lithium (ASX:PLN) has executed an early exploration agreement with Slate Falls First Nations for fieldwork campaigns at the Root Lake Lithium Project in Ontario, Canada.
The agreement enables Pioneer to finalise, implement, and continue its summer exploration work at the project.
Pioneer, which has a market capitalisation of $8.65 million, says it believes that early stage collaboration with indigenous communities can create lasting trust and mutually beneficial economic opportunities, while also ensuring that projects are progressed sustainably and with respect.
Executive Chairman Robert Martin says “we appreciate the way in which Chief Lorraine Crane conducted negotiations, and we look forward to working together in a strong sustainable framework.”
Slate Falls First Nations councillor Freddie Sakakeesic says Pioneer has demonstrated its commitment to working with first nations to understand the importance of the land, water, and way of life.
“Through respectful dialogue, the company recognised our ancestral role as stewards over the land and water by granting the community free, prior and informed consent over their mining activities in our traditional territory,” he says.
The Root Lake Project, in which Pioneer holds a 90% interest and Rockex Mining holds the remaining 10%, covers 1,927 hectares in Ontario.
Pioneer Lithium is an Australian explorer focused on lithium exploration and development in Canada.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: Pioneer Lithium
