Bernama reported that Malaysia Smelting Corporation Bhd has entered into a Confidentiality Agreement with the Ministry of Mines of Congo.

MSC said that the agreement signed in Kinshasa was in connection with the disclosure of confidential information on certain prospective tin mining areas for possible JV cooperation in exploration and development of tin and related mineral resources in Congo.

It said the MSC management had an audience with Mr Joseph Kabila Kabange president of Congo together with the Minister of Mines Mr Martin Kabwelulu. The President expressed his wish for MSC to assist in sustainable development of the tin industry in Congo that would bring socio economic benefits to the local communities as well to overcome the negative image and perception of the country's mining industry.

Congo is currently faced with conflict mineral' issues which have disrupted the livelihood on thousands of people who rely on small scale and artisanal mining. The discussions with the Government of Congo also enhanced collaborative efforts to improve the effective implementation of the due diligence process and transparency system under the International Tin Supply Initiative scheme.

Mr Kabwelulu and delegation from Congo had in April visited the MSC Group mining operations and smelting facilities in Malaysia and Indonesia and were encouraged by the experience and capability that MSC has to offer. The follow up visit to Congo by the MSC team is a further step forward towards entering into a possible JV in the exploration, mining, smelting and marketing that would enhance the Company's long term growth in the tin industry.

(Sourced from BERNAMA)