DUSHANBE, October 31, Asia-Plus – An issue of rhythmical and profitable work of the Tajik-British joint venture, Zeravshan Gold Company (ZGC), was in the center of discussions of Prime Minister Oqil Oqilov with Avocet Mining plc top mangers Jonathan Henry, CEO and interim FD, and Eric Vesel, COO, as well as Zayniddin Alibekov, the Chairman of the ZGC Board of Directors, in Dushanbe today.
According to presidential press service, in the course of the talks Oqilov stressed that the Tajik government had worked out a special program for this enterprise, and “the company’s operation should meet all technological requirements.”
A source at presidential press service noted that the prime minister stressed that all concentrates should processed inside the country.
The meeting also focused on development Jilau, Chore, Taror and other deposits, according to the source. The source said that Jonathan Henry had noted that the development of the Jilau deposit will enable the company to substantially increase gold production to an annual rate of six tons.
The parties also discussed a broad range of social issues concerning the ZGC employees.
Avocet Mining plc is engaged in gold mining, mineral processing and exploration. Avocet operates three mines in southeast Asia and central Asia that include the Penjom mine in Malaysia, North Lanut mine in Indonesia and Zeravshan Gold Company in northern Tajikistan. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006, these three mines produced a total of 208,530 ounces of gold. The Company operates, through its subsidiaries, which includes Avocet Gold Limited, Specific Resources Sdn. Bhd., PT Avocet Bolaang Mongondow and JV Zeravshan LLC. In November 2005, the Company acquired 26% interest in Dynasty Gold Corporation, an exploration company.
