Quebec government announced that it has accepted the conclusions of the board of directors of Alcan with respect to the proposed acquisition of Alcan by a subsidiary of Rio Tinto and has confirmed that Rio Tinto's offer respects the terms of the continuity agreement between Alcan and the Quebec government, signed in 2006 as part of a USD 1.8 billion investment program for the Saguenay Lac Saint Jean region.

Mr Tom Albanese CEO of Rio Tinto said that "This decision by the Quebec government underscores the shared values of Rio Tinto and Alcan, including our dedication to environment, health, safety and local communities. As we move forward together, we are confident that the continued and expanded commitments to Quebec will ensure sustainable growth for the Province's aluminum industry. Rio Tinto has been an investor in Quebec and Canada for decades and is committed to growing the combined Rio Tinto Alcan presence, particularly in Quebec. The announcement by Quebec government means we have satisfied one of the conditions of our offer, and brings completion one step closer."

Mr Dick Evans president & CEO of Alcan Inc said that "We are very pleased that Quebec government agrees that the proposed transaction with Rio Tinto will maintain Alcan's commitments to the province. The continuity agreement was a reflection of the outstanding partnership Alcan has historically enjoyed with Quebec government and communities. Ensuring that this partnership continues for decades to come was vitally important to Alcan and a key element in our deliberations as to the right course for our company. We are excited by the opportunities that Rio Tinto Alcan represents, and that Québec will serve as home base to the world's leading aluminum business."

Meanwhile, for the purposes of the continuity agreement, Alcan agreed that in the event of a proposed acquisition of control, its board of directors would only approve a prospective acquirer who met the necessary requirements in terms of ongoing commitments relevant to the health and prospects of the economy and society of Quebec.