Government Pushback on Unauthorized Mine Visits

Panama's ministry of commerce and industry has clarified that they have not authorized visits to First Quantum's Cobre Panama mine, which is currently shut down. The ministry emphasized that any third-party entries have been arranged by the company alone, without government approval or involvement.

The Panama Ministry of Commerce and Industry made it clear on Tuesday that they did not sanction any visits to the shuttered Cobre Panama mine, operated by First Quantum. The ministry's statement reveals the company's unilateral decision-making without government endorsement.

The ministry stressed that any third-party access to the mine's facilities had been managed solely by First Quantum. There was a lack of consultation or authorization from the National Government, highlighting concerns over procedural transparency and adherence to legal frameworks.

This response underscores the ministry's commitment to regulating access to such important industrial sites, ensuring participation and legitimate involvement from the relevant government authorities to uphold national interests and security.

(With inputs from agencies.)