Panama's First Quantum Copper Mine Exclusion Sparks Debate

Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino announced that the First Quantum copper mine will remain off the government's agenda until next year's first quarter. Mulino emphasized that addressing the Cobre Panama project isn't a priority due to pressing issues like the social security fund. The mine faced closure last year amid environmental protests and legal challenges.

Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino announced on Thursday that the First Quantum copper mine will not feature in the government's agenda until the first quarter of next year.

Mulino told reporters that the Cobre Panama project will be addressed as required, but emphasized that there are currently more urgent priorities such as the social security fund.

The Canadian firm's mine, once a leading global copper source, was shut down last year following extensive environmental protests and a court ruling that declared a new contract unconstitutional.