"MINEX CENTRAL ASIA 2012″. Forum coverage in the news and media

Forum coverage in the news and media revised

25 April 2012

MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

TABLE OF CONTENTS COVERAGE BEFORE THE FORUM ........................................................................................................ 4 Infomine ........................................................................................................................................... 5 Hypelink: http://www.infomine.com/events/MINEX.Central.Asia.2012--IM24703.aspx ................. 5 MINEX Central Asia 2012............................................................................................................ 5 Eurusia Industry ................................................................................................................................ 6 Astana.Kz.......................................................................................................................................... 7 3rd Forum “MINEX CENTRAL ASIA 2012” to be Hold in Astana in April ...................................................7 Coal International ............................................................................................................................. 7 Gemcom ........................................................................................................................................... 9 Media Alert: Gemcom to Speak at MINEX Central Asia 2012 .................................................... 9 Wardell Armstrong ......................................................................................................................... 10 Asia Miner ...................................................................................................................................... 11 EVENTS - Kazakhstan prepares for MINEX Central Asia....................................................................... 11 EVENTS - Kazakhstan hosts 3rd annual forum .................................................................................... 12 Ministry of Industry and New Technologies of Kazakhstan ............................................................... 13 Mineweb.Com ................................................................................................................................ 15 miningne.ws ................................................................................................................................... 15 MINEX Central Asia 2012.......................................................................................................... 15 PM.kz ............................................................................................................................................. 16 Feni Mining..................................................................................................................................... 16 Turner & Townsend ........................................................................................................................ 17 URL: http://www.highgrade.net/article/2012-041/Central_Asia_mining_conference_grows_in_stature .............................................................. 17 High Grade - drilling news ............................................................................................................... 17 URL: http://www.highgrade.net/article/2012-04-11/Central_Asia_mining_conference_grows_in_stature ............................................................................................................................................... 17 commodities-now.com ................................................................................................................... 18 IOM3 .............................................................................................................................................. 19 Gornaya Promyshlennost ................................................................................................................ 20 COVERAGE DURING AND AFTER THE FORUM .................................................................................. 21 Strategic Analyses and Forecast Institute ......................................................................................... 22 Asia Miner ...................................................................................................................................... 23 2|Page

MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media Universal Newswires ....................................................................................................................... 24 Interfax .......................................................................................................................................... 26 Thomson Reuters ............................................................................................................................ 27 Trend News Agency Agency .......................................................................................................... 29 Reduction of bureaucratic obstacles to help attract investors in Kazakhstan’s mining sector ............. 29 Foreign Office ................................................................................................................................. 30 Kaz Pravda ...................................................................................................................................... 32 Exploration, production and prospects. Astana is hosting the III Mining Forum “MINEX Central Asia2012″ ..................................................................................................................................................... 32 Proactive Investors ......................................................................................................................... 35 Bloomberg ...................................................................................................................................... 36 Rio Tinto to Invest $100 Million in Kazakh Copper Project ................................................................... 36 Tengri News .................................................................................................................................... 36 Halyk Finance ................................................................................................................................. 37 Hambledon Mining plans to complete acquisition of Akmola Gold in 2H2012 .................................... 37 CA-NEWS ........................................................................................................................................ 38 Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan ................................................................. 38 CaspioNet ....................................................................................................................................... 40 RIA Novosti ..................................................................................................................................... 41

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

COVERAGE BEFORE THE FORUM

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Infomine Hypelink: http://www.infomine.com/events/MINEX.Central.Asia.2012--IM24703.aspx MINEX Central Asia 2012

April 17, 2012 - April 19, 2012 in Astana, Kazakhstan Radisson Hotel “MINEX Central Asia” Mining Forum, a premier international business event, is organised with the aim of unlocking underexplored mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asia. The forum focuses on creating new international partnerships, attracting investments for the Greenfield and Brownfield mineral exploration and also provides know-how exchange on the development of sustainable and efficient mining in the region.

Contact Information Advantix Ltd. Irina Yukhtina, Director 7-10 Adam Street United Kingdom London Phone: + 44 207 520 9341 Fax: + 44 207 520 9342 Email: ira.y@minexforum.com http://www.advantix.co.uk/advantix-temp.html

MINEX Central Asia 2012 April 17, 2012 - April 19, 2012 in Astana, Kazakhstan Radisson Hotel “MINEX Central Asia” Mining Forum, a premier international business event, is organised with the aim of unlocking underexplored mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asia. The forum focuses on creating new international partnerships, attracting investments for the Greenfield and Brownfield mineral exploration and also provides know-how exchange on the development of sustainable and efficient mining in the region.

Visit website Hypelink: http://www.infomine.com/events/MINEX.Central.Asia.2012--IM24703.aspx

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Eurusia Industry Hypelink: http://www.euroasiaindustry.com/article/mining-industry-gears-up-for-3rd-internationalmining-forum-minex-central-asia-2012 Mining industry gears up for 3rd international mining forum, MINEX Central Asia 2012

Officially endorsed by the Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Industry and New Technologies, MINEX Central Asia Forum – running from 17th to 19th April 2012 at the Radisson hotel in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan – is a reputable international event, designed to stimulate international business development and facilitate exchange of technical and investment experiences in the mining and mineral exploration industry sector in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Over 60 speakers from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Russia, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, the US, Switzerland, Sweden and China will be presenting at MINEX Central Asia 2012, sharing their knowledge with over 500 mining executives, engineers, financiers and investors from 200 companies and 20 countries, that are expected to attend the Forum this year.

The forum will address current issues and provide recommendations for restructuring and further development of the mining and geological sector in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Technical sessions of the forum will demonstrate some of the world’s best practices and innovative technologies ready to be implemented in the fields of geological exploration, extraction and processing of solid minerals throughout Central Asia. International investors looking for mineral exploration opportunities and projects will receive from the government agencies first-hand information about forthcoming regulatory changes designed to stimulate mineral exploration and mining in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.

Among the key speakers confirmed at MINEX Central Asia 2012 there are: Aset Issekeshev (Minister of Industry and New Technologies of Kazakhstan); Murat Musataev (Deputy Secretary General of the Eurasian Economic Community – EurAsEC); Bulat Uzhkenov (Chairman of the Management Board); Kazgeologia Nurlan Sauranbaev (Vice-Minister of the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies); Oleg Soskovets (Chairman of The Eurasian Business Council); Erlan Arinov (Chairman of the Board at the National Agency on Export and Investments Kaznex Invest H.E. David Moran, Her Majesty's Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan H.E. Stephen Millar, Ambassador of Canada to the Republic of Kazakhstan); Edward Bickham (Senior Adviser of World Gold Council); and Robin Weisman (Principal Investment Officer of Natural Resources at the International Finance Corporation).

In addition, senior executives from the following mining companies operating in Central Asia will present their growth strategies and projects at the forum: ENRC Plc; Polymetal International Plc; Cameco Corporation; Rio Tinto; Kazakhmys Plc; Central Asia Metals plc; Hambledon Mining plc; Frontier Mining Ltd; and MBC Corporation.

Mining finance and investment aspects will be addressed by the senior directors from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, International Finance Corporation, BMO Capital, Visor Capital, London Stock Exchange, KPMG, GPW, PwC, and American Appraisal.

A diversified programme of pre-forum events (scheduled for 17th April) will consist of six master classes aimed at mining managers, organised by specialist firms SRK Consulting, Wardell Armstrong International, OAO Uralmekhanobr, JSC Irgiredmet, IMC Montan and KPMG, followed by the 'Ice Breaker' drinks reception in the evening.

Simultaneous translation from English and Russian will be provided at all Forum and Master Classes sessions.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media The 3rd International Mining Forum, MINEX Central Asia 2012, will run from 17th to 19th April 2012 at the Radisson hotel in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan. Over 30 mining and specialist companies will be showcasing their experiences and projects at the exhibition organised alongside the Forum on 18th and 19th April. These include: AK Machinery; ALS Minerals; Aggreko; AGT Systems; Astec Industries; CAE Mining; CCS Services; CEMEQ Minerals; Central Asia Metals; ENRC; ERM; Gemcom Software; IMC Montan; Irgiredmet; Micromine; Mining Machinery Building Plant; NAEN; Nitro Sibir; Olympus Innov-X; Prolight (Vision X); Rio Tinto ; RJC Group; Rusburmash Inc; Safari Diamond Bits; Scania Mining; SISGEO; SGS Vostok; Shaft Sinkers; SRK Consulting; Turner & Townsend; Uralmekhanobr; Urangeo; Victaulic Company and Wardell Armstrong International.

Networking events organised during the Forum on 17th, 18th and 19th April will provide ample opportunities for expanding business contacts in the region and developing relationships with existing and potential partners.

At the Gala Dinner on 18th April there will be the Awards presentation of the finalists of the First Mining Amateur Photography Competition organised in association with 'Mining Industry' magazine, published by Kazakhstan’s 'National Association of Mining and Metallurgical Enterprises'.

For more information about participation/registration for MINEX Central Asia Forum, please visit: www.minexasia.com

ASTANA.KZ 3RD FORUM “MINEX CENTRAL ASIA 2012” TO BE HOLD IN ASTANA IN APRIL Hypelink: http://www.astana.kz/en/node/50857 Astana. The 3rd annual forum “MINEX Central Asia 2012” will be held in Astana on April 17-19, the official website of the forum informed.

The forum “MINEX Central Asia 2012” aimed to develop the vast mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asian countries, to enhance international dialogue on issues of government regulation, technological upgrading, professional trainings, financing and investing activities in the sphere of subsoil.

The forum is regularly attended by more than 450 delegated from 200 national and international companies.

The program of the forum provides opportunities for professional exchange of international experience and practical knowledge relevant to the modern practice of mineral subsoil in Central Asia.

For more information, please visit the website of the forum: www.minexasia.com.

Coal International URL: http://www.mqworld.com/article.php?id=11798 03 Apr 2012 MINEX Central Asia 2012

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media The 3rd International Mining Forum "MINEX Central Asia 2012" will be held on 17-19 April 2012 at the Radisson hotel in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan.

Officially endorsed by the Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Industry and New Technologies, "MINEX Central Asia" Forum is a reputable international event, designed to stimulate international business development and facilitate exchange of technical and investment experiences in mining and mineral exploration industry sector in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Over 60 speakers from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Russia, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, USA, Switzerland, Sweden and China will be presenting at MINEX Central Asia 2012 sharing their knowledge with over 500 mining executives, engineers, financiers and investors from 200 companies and 20 countries expected to attend the Forum this year.

The forum will address current issues and provide recommendations for restructuring and further development of mining and geological sector in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Technical sessions of the forum will demonstrate some of the world’s best practices and innovative technologies ready to be implemented in the fields of geological exploration, extraction and processing of solid minerals throughout Central Asia.

International investors looking for mineral exploration opportunities and projects will receive from the government agencies first-hand information about forthcoming regulatory changes designed to stimulate mineral exploration and mining in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.

Among the key speakers confirmed at MINEX Central Asia 2012 there are: Aset Issekeshev, Minister of Industry and New Technologies of Kazakhstan, Murat Musataev, Deputy Secretary General, The Eurasian Economic Community (EurAsEC) Bulat Uzhkenov, Chairman of the Management Board, Kazgeologia Nurlan Sauranbaev, Vice-Minister, Ministry of Industry and New Technologies Oleg Soskovets, Chairman, The Eurasian Business Council Erlan Arinov, Chairman of the Board, National Agency on Export and Investments Kaznex Invest H.E. David Moran, Her Majesty's Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan H.E. Stephen Millar, Ambassador of Canada to the Republic of Kazakhstan Edward Bickham, Senior Adviser, World Gold Council Robin Weisman, Principal Investment Officer, Natural Resources, International Finance Corporation Senior executives from the following mining companies operating in Central Asia will present their growth strategies and projects at the forum: ENRC Plc; Polymetal International Plc; Cameco Corporation; Rio Tinto; Kazakhmys Plc; Central Asia Metals plc; Hambledon Mining plc; Frontier Mining Ltd; MBC Corporation.

Mining finance and investment aspects will be addressed by the senior directors from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, International Finance Corporation, BMO Capital, Visor Capital, London Stock Exchange, KPMG, GPW, PwC, and American Appraisal.

A diversified programme of pre-forum events scheduled on 17 April, will consist of six master classes aimed at mining managers, organised by specialist firms SRK Consulting, Wardell Armstrong International, OAO "Uralmekhanobr", JSC "Irgiredmet», IMC Montan and KPMG followed by the Ice Breaker drinks reception in the evening.

Simultaneous translation from English and Russian will be provided at all Forum and Master Classes sessions.

Over 30 mining and specialist companies will be showcasing their experiences and projects at the exhibition organised alongside the Forum on 18 and 19 April.

AK Machinery; ALS Minerals; Aggreko; AGT Systems; Astec Industries; CAE Mining; CCS Services; CEMEQ Minerals; Central Asia Metals; ENRC; ERM; Gemcom Software; IMC Montan; Irgiredmet; Micromine; Mining Machinery Building Plant; NAEN; Nitro Sibir; Olympus Innov-X; Prolight (Vision X); Rio Tinto ; RJC Group; Rusburmash Inc; Safari Diamond Bits; Scania Mining; SISGEO; SGS Vostok; Shaft Sinkers; SRK Consulting; Turner & Townsend; Uralmekhanobr; Urangeo; Victaulic Company and Wardell Armstrong International.

Networking events organised during the Forum on 17, 18 and 19 April will provide ample opportunities for expanding business contacts in the region and developing relationships with existing and potential partners.

At the Gala Dinner on 18 April there will be the Awards presentation of the finalists of the First Mining Amateur Photography Competition organised in association with "Mining Industry" magazine published by Kazakhstan’s "National Association of Mining and Metallurgical Enterprises”.

(Ref 5108)

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Gemcom

URL: http://www.gemcomsoftware.com/company/events/australasia/minex-central-asia-2012 The 3rd Mining and Exploration Forum and Expo “MINEX Central Asia 2012” will be held in Astana on 17-19 April 2012 at the Radisson Hotel in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan.

The Forum aims to unlock immense mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asian region and enhance professional dialogue in technical, regulatory, education and investment aspects of mining and mineral exploration.

With over 450 delegates from 200 local and international companies, over 60 speakers as well as 25 company exhibitors, MINEX Central Asia forum is one of the largest international Mining and Mineral Exploration events organised in Central Asia.

URL: http://www.gemcomsoftware.com/company/press-releases/media-alert-gemcom-speak-minexcentral-asia-2012 MEDIA ALERT: GEMCOM TO SPEAK AT MINEX CENTRAL ASIA 2012 ALMATY, Kazakhstan – April 11, 2012 – Gemcom Software International Inc., the largest global supplier of mining software solutions, today announced that Andrew Pyne, senior vice president of Gemcom AustralAsia will be speaking at MINEX Central Asia 2012 on the topic of data management. During his presentation, Mr. Pyne will discuss the challenges faced by mining operations when sharing and securing exploration and production data across their organisation, and how software systems can provide a solution to data management issues. His presentation will also focus on addressing concerns such as centralisation of data, locating data, data transfer and security.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media Who:

Andrew Pyne, senior vice president, Gemcom AustralAsia

What:

MINEX Central Asia 2012

When:

Wednesday, April 18, 2012, 2:45 p.m.

Where:

Radisson Hotel, Astana, Kazakhstan

For more information about MINEX Central Asia, visit www.minexasia.com.

About Gemcom When mining companies seek to increase mine productivity, they turn to Gemcom for technology and services. The Company is home to world-renowned mining solutions like GEMS, Surpac, Minex, Whittle, and InSite, and to industry thought leaders who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in mining.

Established in 1985, Gemcom has a global reach delivering comprehensive solutions in all major mining centres in more than 130 countries. Every major mining company, including BHP Billiton, Codelco, De Beers, Newmont and Vale is a Gemcom client. Through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions, the Company has become the largest global supplier of mining software solutions. For more information, visit www.gemcomsoftware.com.

Wardell Armstrong URL: http://www.mining.com/2012/03/26/wardell-armstrong-to-lead-mining-project-masterclass-atminex-in-astana/ WARDELL ARMSTRONG TO LEAD MINING PROJECT MASTERCLASS AT MINEX IN ASTANA

CNW Group | March 26, 2012 A masterclass looking at the whole process of developing a mining project – from initial studies and designs through to operations and management – is being organised and led by Wardell Armstrong International at this year’s Minex forum from 17 to 19 April in Astana, Kazakhstan. The consultancy is also providing two of the four speakers – Daniil Lunev, principal mining engineer, and James McNally, technical director.

The masterclass will explore in particular how some of the analysis and design tools used during feasibility studies and project development, including the environmental and social impact assessment, can follow through to the operating phase and beyond. The ninety minute master class will start at midday on the opening day of the forum, 17 April.

Wardell Armstrong will also host the first of the plenary sessions on day two, with Dr Phil Newall, director, mining and minerals, acting as moderator. The session will address global mining economic and financial trends, and their impact on further development of Central Asia’s mining and mineral exploration.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Phil Newall will also be one of the speakers on successful project financing during the third technical session on day two, dealing with the evaluation of mining projects and investment risks in Central Asia. Shibani Bose, senior social specialist with Wardell Armstrong, will talk on globalisation and increasing the need to gain and maintain a “social licence to operate” during the fourth technical session on day two, dealing with international environmental and social requirements for mining operations. The final plenary session on day three, looking at training and professional development, will include a talk by Jan Lewis on the journey from graduation to competent person. As well as being chair of the technical committee of MINEX and president of iom3 (Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining), Jan is aWardell Armstrong director.

Nick Coppin, managing director of Wardell Armstrong International, said: “We’re delighted to be involved in so many aspects of this important event. We appreciate the opportunity to draw on our strong local experience of the mining projects managed from our Almaty offices, as well as the global expertise developed by many of our international mining specialists. We’re glad to be able to underline our well established position and long term commitment to the mining industry in Kazakhstan and central Asia.”

Minex Central Asia, the region’s principal mining and exploration forum, is being held over three days from 17-19 April at the Radisson Astana Hotel, Astana, Kazakhstan. Wardell Armstrong will be exhibiting its full range of international capabilities in the mining sector at the exhibition accompanying the conference.

Asia Miner EVEN T S - KAZ A K HS TA N P R EP AR E S F OR M IN E X CEN TR AL A SI A

URL: http://www.asiaminer.com/magazine/current-news/4154-events-kazakhstan-prepares-for-minexcentral-asia.html Preparation is well under way for the third annual mining and exploration forum aimed at unlocking the immense mineral potential of Kazakhstan and the central Asia region.

MINEX Central Asia 2012 will be held at the Radisson Hotel in Astana, central north Kazakhstan, from April 17-19 and is set to be the largest international forum on prospecting, exploration and mining in the local area. Organizers are focusing the expo on creating new international partnerships and attracting investments in the development of mineral exploration and sustainable mining in the region.

The organizing committee is made up of 30 leading industry experts and chaired by Jan Lewis, the president of IOM3. The committee is formulating the three-day agenda in close cooperation with leading mining companies, government agencies and foreign investors.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Jan Lewis says the forum will address the proposed changes in the reorganization and further development of mining and geological industries in Kazakhstan. “The forum will also offer a platform for other Central Asian states to showcase mining investment projects and innovative technologies for more efficient mineral exploration, extraction and processing. The forum incorporates a two day conference, on-site exhibition and pre-forum master classes organized for mining professionals.”

Almost 500 delegates from 200 local and international companies have registered to attend the forum that’s boasting more than 60 speakers as well as 25 company exhibitors.

“Local and international mining and mineral exploration companies interested in sharing their success stories with investors, as well as governmental agencies and authorities wishing to promote new business ventures and investors seeking to expand their presence in Kazakhstan and Central Asia will be given every chance to network at next month’s forum,” says Jan Lewis.

The forum’s program offers an excellent platform for international companies and individuals seeking business, partnership and investment opportunities in Kazakhstan and Central Asia to meet potential partners. The decision to host the expo in the capital city Astana will also greatly increase the opportunity for establishing direct dialogue with senior government officials.

Kazakhstan’s industry and new technologies minister A Issekeshev says the forum will stimulate professional dialogue on exploring and developing the region’s mineral potential. “Currently, Kazakhstan is going through important changes – creating more attractive conditions for growth of mineral exploration and efficient regeneration of mineral resources; high-tech solutions and automated management technologies in the mining and mineral exploration sector are being implemented; data on mining and mineral exploration results is being systematized and upgraded and extensive works are being carried out to develop sufficient infrastructure and create favourable conditions for training the workforce and meeting current industry requirements.” www.minexasia.com/2012

EVEN T S - KAZ A K HS TA N H O ST S 3R D AN N U AL F OR U M URL: http://www.asiaminer.com/magazine/current-news/news-archive/142-january-2012/4031-eventskazakhstan-hosts-3rd-annual-forum.html

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

More than 50 companies will be featured in the exhibition display forum at the 2012 Minex Central Asia mining forum in April. The two-day forum will focus on highlighting the growing importance of Kazakhstan and Central Asia to international miners and investors.

Organizers say the new international partnerships created at the forum will help to unlock the underexplored mineral potential of the region, and attract investors for current and potential green and brownfield mineral exploration.

Minex’s strong ties with the country’s government agencies and policy makers have provided a dedicated government relations platform for delegates to access at the forum.

In recent years, the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, the Industry and New Technologies Minister and the Economic Development and Trade Minister have all been guest speakers at the forum.

This year, delegates can learn about forthcoming legislation and government initiatives from the conference speakers and even ask direct questions regarding taxation, licensing and investment opportunities during Q&A sessions or one-on-one meetings.

The forum is steered by the Minex Technical Committee, chaired by Jan Lewis who is the president of the UK’s Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, and also boasts the top 30 industry experts and senior government officials, to determine the high quality agenda.

Ministry of Industry and New Technologies of Kazakhstan URL: http://www.mint.gov.kz/index.php?page=news&itemid=44 NEWS BRIEF OF THE 3RD MINING & MINERAL EXPLORATION FORUM “MINEX CENTRAL ASIA-12” 10.04.2012 The 3rd MINEX Central Asia Mining & Mineral Exploration Forum which will take place at the Radisson Hotel in Astana (Republic of Kazakhstan) on 17-19 April 2012. Over 500 delegates from over 20 countries are expected at the forum. Delegate and Press pre-registration ends on 13 April. To register please visit: www.minexasia.com Mining industry plays a vital role in the economic growth of the Central Asian States contributing to the creation of skilled jobs, development of infrastructure and international trade. New and sophisticated technologies for mineral exploration and mining have recently become available. Such advances in technology have helped dramatically reduce production costs, improve efficiency and transform projects which in the past have been un-economic. Sustained by the surge of the global demand and growing commodity prices, the mining sector is becoming more attractive to international investors looking for longterm and reliable sources of income.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media Presently mineral-rich states of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are planning to introduce changes to their mining and subsoil use policies and create more attractive conditions for growth in mineral exploration and efficient regeneration of the mineral resources. The coming changes are also designed to stimulate the implementation of high-tech solutions and automated management technologies in mining and mineral exploration; data on mining and mineral exploration results is being systematised and upgraded; extensive works are being carried out to develop sufficient infrastructure and create favourable conditions for workforce training and meeting current industry requirements.

Over the two days of the forum (18-19 April) and pre-forum master classes (17 April), more than 70 speakers will present on the latest developments and forthcoming changes in the mining regulation in Central Asia, mining finance and investment, mining and mineral exploration projects as well as new technologies becoming available to miners in this region.

For forum’s agenda please check: http://www.minexasia.com/2012/agenda/ Among the key officials from Central Asia and Eurasian Economic Community that have confirmed participation in the forum there are: H.E. SERIK AKHMETOV, FIRST DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER OF KAZAKHSTAN MURAT MUSSATAYEV, DEPUTY SECRETARY GENERAL, EURASIAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY (EURASEC) NURLAN SAURANBAEV, VICE-MINISTER, MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY AND NEW TECHNOLOGIES BULAT UZHKENOV, CHAIRMAN OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD, NATIONAL GEOLOGICAL EXPLORATION COMPANY “KAZGEOLOGIA” OLEG SOSKOVETS, CHAIRMAN, THE EURASIAN BUSINESS COUNCIL AZIM IBROKHIM, HEAD OF GEOLOGY ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE GOVERNMENT OF TAJIKISTAN UTCHKUNBEK TASHBAEV, DIRECTOR, STATE AGENCY OF GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES, REPUBLIC OF KYRGYZSTAN Senior executives from the following mining companies operating in Central Asia will present their growth strategies and projects at the forum: ENRC; POLYMETAL INTERNATIONAL; CAMECO CORPORATION; RIO TINTO; CENTRAL ASIA METALS; HAMBLEDON MINING; FRONTIER MINING; MBC CORPORATION. Mining finance and investment aspects will be addressed by the senior directors from the EUROPEAN BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT, INTERNATIONAL FINANCE CORPORATION, BMO CAPITAL, CITIC CAPITAL, VISOR CAPITAL, LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE, KPMG, GPW, PWC, AND AMERICAN APPRAISAL. During the exhibition organised alongside the Forum on 18 and 19 April the following companies will be showcasing their experiences, technologies and projects in Central Asia: AK MACHINERY; ALS MINERALS; AGGREKO; AGT SYSTEMS; ASTEC INDUSTRIES; CAE MINING; CCS SERVICES; CEMEQ MINERALS; CENTRAL ASIA METALS; ENRC; ERM; GEMCOM SOFTWARE; IMC MONTAN; IRGIREDMET; KAZAKHMYS; KAZAKHALTYN MMC; MICROMINE; MINING MACHINERY BUILDING PLANT; NAEN; NITRO SIBIR; OLYMPUS INNOV-X; POLY-CLIP SYSTEM; PROLIGHT (VISION X); RIO TINTO ; RJC GROUP; RUSBURMASH INC; SAFARI DIAMOND BITS; SCANIA MINING; SISGEO; SGS VOSTOK; SHAFT SINKERS; SRK CONSULTING; TURNER & TOWNSEND;

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media URALMEKHANOBR; URANGEO; VICTAULIC COMPANY AND WARDELL ARMSTRONG INTERNATIONAL. Finalists and the Winners of the first amateur photography contest, “Prospector. Miner. Metallurgist” organised by MINEX Central Asia 2012 and Editors of the “Mining & Metals Industry” magazine in Kazakhstan will be presented at the Gala Dinner on 18 April at the Radisson Hotel in Astana.

The list of finalists is published on: http://www.minexasia.com/2012/results-of-the-photocontest/

Mineweb.Com URL: http://www.mineweb.com/mineweb/view/mineweb/en/page63?oid=147343&sn=Detail&pid=102055 16 Mar 2012 Mar 14. Mineweb “MINEX Central Asia” to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, from 17-19 April 2012, is recognised as the largest and most authoritative international forum on prospecting, exploration and mining in Kazakhstan and Central Asia .

The forum is organised with the aim of unlocking underexplored mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asia and focuses on creating of new international partnerships and attracting investments in the development of mineral exploration and sustainable mining in the region.

Forum’s technical committee comprised of 30 leading industry experts and chaired by Mr Jan Lewis, President of IOM3, will be preparing forum’s agenda in close cooperation with the leading mining companies, government agencies and foreign investors.

Forum will address proposed changes in the reorganisation and further development of mining and geological industry of Kazakhstan. The forum will also offer platform for other Central Asia states for showcasing mining investment projects and innovative technologies for more efficient mineral exploration, extraction and processing. The forum incorporates a two day conference, on-site exhibition and pre-forum Master Classes organised for miningne.wsmining professionals.

miningne.ws URL: http://www.miningne.ws/pg/event/view/98278/minex-central-asia-2012 MINEX Central Asia 2012 When: 17 Apr 2012 - 19 Apr 2012 Venue: Radisson Hotel in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan Organiser: minexforum Contact: +44 (0) 207 520 9341, admin@minexforum.com

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media With over 450 delegates from 200 local and international companies, over 60 speakers as well as 25 company exhibitors, MINEX Central Asia forum is one of the largest international Mining and Mineral Exploration events organised in Central Asia.

The forum’s three day multi-flow program of conference presentations, business networking events and exhibition offers excellent platform for international companies and individuals seeking business, partnership and investment opportunities in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Forum’s location in Kazakhstan’s capital Astana greatly enhances opportunities for establishing direct dialogue with senior Government officials and Industry Leaders.

PM.KZ URL: http://www.pm.kz/program/event/view/1843 April 10, 2012 The 3rd Mining and Exploration Forum and Expo “MINEX Central Asia 2012” will be held in Astana on 17-19 April 2012. About 500 delegates from 20 countries of the world are expected to participate in the event, the press service of the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies reports.

Important changes that take place in the ore-mining industry of Central Asian region will be presented in more than 70 plenary and technical sessions of two-day forum (April 18-19) and at the preceding master classes scheduled for April 17, the press service of the Ministry informs.

Development plans and strategies of a number of the largest ore-mining and junior companies working in Kazakhstan including the ENRC Plc.; Polymetal International Plc; Cameco Corporation; Rio Tinto; Central Asia Metals plc; Hambledon Mining plc; Frontier Mining Ltd and MBC Corporation will be presented at the Forum.

Leading experts of the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development, International Financial Corporation, World Bank, BMO Capital, Citic Capital, Visor Capital, London Stock Exchange, KPMG, GPW, PwC and American Appraisal will inform of the international experience in attraction of financing and investments to the ore-mining industry.

Over 30 presentations of mining, service and industrial companies from Kazakhstan, Russia, Great Britain, South Africa, Australia, Canada, Sweden, USA, Italy and Ukraine will be held within the specialized exhibition during the forum.

Feni Mining URL: http://www.fenimining.com/en/kongre/kongre-3-orta-asya-maden-teknik-arama-forum-ve-fuariminex-2012-8.html The 3rd Mining and Exploration Forum and Expo “MINEX Central Asia”, 17-19 April 2012 Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media Web Site: The 3rd Mining and Exploration Forum and Expo “MINEX Central Asia”, 17-19 April 2012 Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan.

Place: Radisson Hotel in Astana

Turner & Townsend URL: http://www.turnerandtownsend.com/1267/_16668.html

SUPPORTING THE MINING SECTOR Kazakhstan has some of the world’s largest ferrous, non-ferrous and coal reserves, much of which is largely undeveloped. Turner & Townsend has a strong mining capability and experience and is well placed to assist both Kazakh and international corporations in realising the considerable opportunities that this mineral wealth offers and in creating the essential infrastructure for effective mining operations.

This year Turner & Townsend will participate in MINEX, a great opportunity for all interested clients to meet our team. We have worked in Kazakhstan for over 12 years and in the past 2 years we have rapidly grown our local support to the energy and mining sectors through our office in Atyrau.

MINEX Central Asia - 17-19 April 2012 in Astana – is one of the largest international mining and mineral exploration events in Central Asia. The Forum aims to unlock the immense mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asian region and enhance professional dialogue in technical, regulatory, education and investment aspects of mining and mineral exploration.

We look forward to meeting you at MINEX to discuss how we can support you in Kazakhstan and wider CIS. To set up a meeting at MINEX please contact Mark Richards on +7 (7122) 76 08 04 /05 /06.

URL: http://www.highgrade.net/article/2012-04-1/Central_Asia_mining_conference_grows_in_stature

High Grade - drilling news URL: http://www.highgrade.net/article/2012-04-11/Central_Asia_mining_conference_grows_in_stature

CENTRAL ASIA MINING CONFERENCE GROWS IN STATURE Staff reporter, 11 April 2012

Astana in Kazakhstan.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

MORE than 500 delegates from over 20 countries are expected to attend next week’s 3rd MINEX Central Asia Mining & Mineral Exploration Forum at the Radisson Hotel in Astana, Kazakhstan.

The event runs from April 17-19 including pre-forum master classes, with more than 70 speakers down to present including a bevy of government officials from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Also listed to address delegates is Eurasian Business Council chairman Oleg Soskovets, deputy secretary general of the Eurasian Economic Community Murat Mussatayev, and Bulat Uzhkenov, chairman of Kazakh national “geological exploration company” Kazgeologia.

“Presently mineral-rich states of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are planning to introduce changes to their mining and subsoil use policies and create more attractive conditions for growth in mineral exploration and efficient regeneration of the mineral resources,” a conference spokesperson said.

“The coming changes are also designed to stimulate the implementation of high-tech solutions and automated management technologies in mining and mineral exploration, and data on mining and mineral exploration results is being systematised and upgraded. Extensive works are being carried out to develop sufficient infrastructure and create favourable conditions for workforce training and meeting current industry requirements.”

Organisers said senior executives from ENRC, Polymetal International, Cameco Corporation, Rio Tinto, Central Asia Metals, Hambledon Mining, Frontier Mining and MBC Corporation would also present on company growth strategies in the region, while finance and investment aspects would be addressed by directors from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, International Finance Corporation, BMO Capital, CITIC Capital, Visor Capital, London Stock Exchange, KPMG, GPW, PwC, and American Appraisal.

commodities-now.com Tuesday, 17 April 2012 - Thursday, 19 April 2012 MINEX CENTRAL ASIA 2012 URL: http://www.commodities-now.com/events/metals-and-mining/event/359.html The 3rd Mining and Exploration forum and expo "MINEX Central Asia 2012" will be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, from 17-19 April 2012.

MINEX Central Asia is recognised as the largest and most authoritative international forum on prospecting, exploration and mining in Kazakhstan and Central Asia .

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

The forum is organised with the aim of unlocking underexplored mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asia and focuses on creating of new international partnerships and attracting investments in the development of mineral exploration and sustainable mining in the region.

The Forum’s technical committee comprised of 30 leading industry experts and chaired by Mr Jan Lewis, President of IOM3, will be preparing forum’s agenda in close cooperation with the leading mining companies, government agencies and foreign investors. Forum will address proposed changes in the reorganisation and further development of mining and geological industry of Kazakhstan.

The forum will also offer platform for other Central Asia states for showcasing mining investment projects and innovative technologies for more efficient mineral exploration, extraction and processing.

Website: http://www.minexasia.com/2012/

IOM3 URL: http://www.iom3.org/events/minex-central-asia Minex Central Asia 2012 17 Apr 2012 - 19 Apr 2012, Astana, REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN COSPONSORED BY THE INSTITUTE OF MATERIALS, MINERALS AND MINING The 3rd Mining and Exploration Forum and Expo will be held in Astana on 17-19 April 2012 at the Radisson Hotel in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan.

The Forum aims to unlock the immense mineral potential of the Kazakhstan and Central Asian region and enhance professional dialogue in technical, regulatory, education and investment aspects of mining and mineral exploration.

The forum is designed for:     

Local and international mining and mineral exploration companies interested in sharing their success story with investors, media and peers; Local governmental agencies and authorities wishing to promote new business ventures and present forthcoming changes or initiatives; International companies and Financial organisations offering expertise and technologies to the local mineral exploration, mining and metallurgical enterprises; Investors seeking to expand their presence in Kazakhstan and Central Asia; Local managers and executives interested in enriching their working knowledge in the current mining management practices and solutions.

14 March 2012 Date Commences: 17 April 2012 Date ends: 19 April 2012

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media "MINEX Central Asia" to be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, from 17-19 April 2012, is recognised as the largest and most authoritative international forum on prospecting, exploration and mining in Kazakhstan and Central Asia .

The forum is organised with the aim of unlocking underexplored mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asia and focuses on creating of new international partnerships and attracting investments in the development of mineral exploration and sustainable mining in the region.

Forum's technical committee comprised of 30 leading industry experts and chaired by Mr Jan Lewis, President of IOM3, will be preparing forum's agenda in close cooperation with the leading mining companies, government agencies and foreign investors.

Forum will address proposed changes in the reorganisation and further development of mining and geological industry of Kazakhstan. The forum will also offer platform for other Central Asia states for showcasing mining investment projects and innovative technologies for more efficient mineral exploration, extraction and processing. The forum incorporates a two day conference, on-site exhibition and pre-forum Master Classes organised for mining professionals.

Gornaya Promyshlennost URL: http://www.mining-media.ru/en/newsen/2160-the-3rd-international-mining-forum-qminex-centralasia-2012q-will-be-held-on-17-19-april-2012-at-the-radisson-hotel-in-astana-republic-of-kazakhstan

MINEX Central Asia Venue(s):

Astana, Kazakhstan

Contact number:

+44 (0) 1275 540582

Contact email:

borka.m@minexforum.com

Link:

http://www.minexasia.com/2012

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

COVERAGE DURING AND AFTER THE FORUM

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Strategic Analyses and Forecast Institute URL: http://easttime.info/news/kazakhstan/third-annual-forum-minex-central-asia-2012-starts-astana Third annual forum ‘MINEX Central Asia 2012’ starts in Astana Tuesday, April 17, 2012 - 20:34

The Third annual forum 'MINEX Central Asia 2012' will be held in Astana on April 17-19 2012, the forum's organising committee said on Tuesday.

'The event is aimed at developing the vast mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asian countries, the promotion of international dialogue on issues of government regulation, technical improvements, training of skilful personnel, financing and investing activities in use of mineral resources', the report says.

The forum platform is used for the presentation of projects and strategies of the development of national and international mining companies operating in Central Asia and adjoining countries.

Priority issues related to the development of use of mineral resources is discussed as is the licensing policy, tax planning, innovation activity, foreign trade and investment activity in geological exploration as well as the mining and processing of solid minerals.

The forum is regularly attended by more than 450 delegates from 200 national and international companies.

URL: http://easttime.info/news/kazakhstan/kazakhstan-intends-search-new-coal-deposits

Kazakhstan intends to search for new coal deposits Friday, April 20, 2012 - 20:32

It is necessary to carry out a geological exploration in Kazakhstan to identify prospects of coal in the south, east and west of the country, managing director for Geology of National Geological Prospecting Company Kazgeology Berikbol Khamzin said on Wednesday.

"One of the main problems of the coal industry in Kazakhstan is an uneven geographical distribution of existing reserves. Their presence in the north and centre of the country and the shortage in the south, east and west," said Khamzin, speaking at the III mining Forum MINEX in Astana.

However, he noted that Kazakhstan is one of the top 10 countries in the world in terms of coal reserves.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Asia Miner URL: www.asiaminer.com/magazine/current-news/4205-events-minex-central-asia-2012-opens.html EVENTS - MINEX Central Asia 2012 opens Kazakhstan’s 3rd international mining forum is on this week at the Radisson Hotel in Astana, with more than 500 participants arriving to hear from more than 60 speakers during the event.

MINEX Central Asia 2012 from April 17-19 is designed to stimulate international business development and facilitate the exchange of technical and investment experiences in the Kazakhstan and Central Asia mining sector. The event has been officially endorsed by Kazakhstan’s Industry and New Technologies Ministry.

Twenty countries and 200 companies are being represented at this year’s forum, which is addressing current issues and the further development of the region’s mining and geological sector.

Technical sessions will demonstrate some of the world’s best practices and innovative technologies ready to be implemented in geological exploration, extraction and processing of Central Asian minerals.

International investors looking for opportunities in mineral exploration will receive first hand information from government agencies about regulatory changes designed to stimulate mineral exploration and mining in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and the Kyrgyz Republic.

Kazakhstan’s Industry and New Technologies Minister is among the guest speakers, along with the chairman of the Eurasian Business Council and Edward Bickham, who’s the senior adviser to the World Gold Council.

Mining companies which currently operate in Central Asia including Rio Tinto, Frontier Mining and Central Asia Metals, will present their growth strategies and projects to potential investors. Another 30 companies will be among those to exhibit their products at the corresponding trade show.

Organizers say there will be numerous opportunities for participants to expand their business contacts and develop relationships with potential partners during the forum. A gala dinner will also see awards presented to the finalists of the first amateur mining photography competition which has been organized in association with Kazakhstan’s Mining Industry magazine. www.minexasia.com

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Universal Newswires URL: http://www.universalnewswires.com/centralasia/economy/viewstory.aspx?id=11829 Wednesday, April 18, 2012 Kazakh government to spend $400M in mineral exploration

Kazakh government will increase investment in minerals exploration Kazakhstan will increase state spending to $400 million per year in the search for new reserves of minerals in Central Asia, a senior Kazakh official said on Wednesday.

Vice Minister of Industry and Trade of Kazakhstan Nurlan Sauranbayev voiced that comment to participants attending the third mining forum ‘Minex Central Asia 2012’ in Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan.

Minex Central Asia 2012 aims at unlocking the underexplored mineral potential of Kazakhstan and the Central Asian republics.

“All the easily accessible top surface deposits are well studied and most of these have already been developed,” Sauranbayev said.

"Now we want to begin to study the deep fields. New fields are located at depth,” the Kursiv.kz news agency cited the vice-minister as saying. “Geologists will utilize new technologies to explore at greater depths in the search for non-ferrous metals.”

Participants at the annual forum are discussing government regulations, licensing policies, and tax planning, as well as innovations in geological exploration, mining, and processing of solid minerals.

They are also showcasing mining investment projects and innovative technologies for more efficient exploration, extraction and processing of minerals.

Around 450 delegates representing 200 regional and international firms are expected to attend activities during the three-day mining forum.

The event is recognized as the largest and most authoritative regional meeting on prospecting, exploration and mining in the region.

The event winds up on Thursday.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

URL: http://www.universalnewswires.com/centralasia/business/viewstory.aspx?id=11847 Thursday, April 19, 2012 Remove investment barriers in Kazakhstan, mining companies say

Kazakhstan needs to improve business environment to attract more foreign miners - Kazakhstan can establish dominance in the mining sector if it implements the necessary reforms to attract foreign mining firms, consultants gathering at a mining conference in the Kazakh capital Astana said on Thursday.

“Exploration is a thriving business around the world, but it is not thriving in this region,” the Reuters news agency reported SRK Consulting General Director David Pearce as saying.

“Companies need to have the confidence that, if they do the exploration, they can develop the mine and achieve the economic reward.”

Kazakhstan is mineral-rich and has been extensively mapped by exploration specialists. But the Central Asian state attracts less than 1 percent of total global investment in minerals mining.

One reason for this delay in mining sector development is the problem inherent in offering tenders, Rio Tinto’s general manager for Central Asian exploration, Chris Welton, told the third annual MINEX conference.

“A lack of transparency in the tender process means that foreign investors do not feel confident they can get a fair hearing,” Welton said.

“The decision on awarding tenders is driven solely on the signing bonus and the social contribution, with no consideration of the technical competence of the winner or the winner’s ability to develop that project.”

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

He also added: “Investors are reticent to present their ideas as the chance of them winning the subsequent tender are slim.”

Kazakh First Deputy Prime Minister Serik Akhmetov said the government is working to improve these processes.

“It’s important to create the optimum conditions for attracting investment, technology and opening up new mineral deposits that can help replenish depleting reserves and create the economic stimulus for development,” he said.

On Wednesday, Vice Minister of Industry and Trade Nurlan Sauranbayev said the government would invest $400 million per year in search of new mineral reserves.

Interfax URL: http://www.interfax.com/newsinf.asp?id=325460

Hambledon Mining to boost gold output in Kazakhstan to 100,000 oz by end-2017 ASTANA. April 19 (Interfax) - Hambledon Mining plc is planning to increase gold production at Sekisovka deposit in East Kazakhstan to 100,000 oz by the end of 2017, the company's CEO Tim Daffern said.

"The mine, which was put into operation recently, currently produces 21,000 oz of gold. We expect the gold output to reach 100,000 oz a year by the end of 2017," he said Thursday in Astana at the 3rd Forum "MINEX Central Asia 2012."

Hambledon Mining currently develops the Sekisovka gold deposit in Kazakhstan. Last year the company also sealed an agreement to purchase a 100% stake in Kazakhstan-based Akmola Gold LLP which holds licenses for development of Tellur and Stepok gold deposits that lie in the center of the republic.

Daffern said the company planned to wrap up talks about purchasing the 100% stake in Akmola Gold LLP in the second half of 2012.

"We hope that the negotiations [with the Kazakh Ministry of Industry and New Technologies] will be over within the next three-four months," he said.

"Expenditures associated with this project will come to $5 million this year. We are going to employ engineers, find local construction contractors. Next year we will spend $20 million on construction, additional labor and new contractors," he said.

Currently, Akmola Gold LLP is owned by Central Asian Gold Corporation and Yerkin Sadykov on a parity basis.

The cost of the deal is $5 million. One half will be paid in cash, the other half in ordinary shares of Hambledon Mining. To allow the deal to go forward the government of Kazakhstan will have to waive its pre-emptive right of purchase.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media Tellur and Stepok are located 140 km to the north of the capital Astana. The aggregate reserves of the deposits are estimated at 440,000 ounces of gold, not including silver and other metals. The estimate may be increased after further exploration of the deposits.

The reserves of Tellur are estimated at 140,000 ounces. Its development is expected to begin in the first half of 2013. Starting from mid-2014 the company plans to produce 20,000 ounces of gold per year at the deposit.

Stepok holds an estimated 300,000 ounces of gold and a significant amount of copper, lead and zinc. The development of the deposit will require additional exploration work and a bank feasibility study, which may take 3-4 years. Yearly production at the deposit may amount to 30,000 ounces of gold and 40,000 ounces of silver. The company does not rule out that after additional exploration the estimated reserves of the deposit may increase and annual production double to 60,000 ounces.

Kz pr (Our editorial staff can be reached at eng.editors@interfax.ru) Polymetal to raise gold production at Varvarinskoye mine by 10% in 2012 URL: http://www.interfax.kz/?lang=eng&int_id=10&news_id=5029 Astana. April 19. Interfax-Kazakhstan - Polymetal plans to increase gold production at its Varvarinskoye mine (in Kostanai region, northern Kazakhstan) by around 10%, the company's General Director Vitaly Nesis said.

"This year our production will remain stable. We will produce slightly less copper and around 10% more gold," Nesis told journalists in Astana on Thursday.

"The slight increase in gold production will be due to imported raw materials," he added.

Speaking at the 3rd yearly forum MINEX Central Asia 2012 in Astana on Thursday, Vitaly Nesis said that in 2011 Varvarinskoye JSC produced about 3 tons of gold and 7,000 tons of copper. The cost of one ounce of gold equivalent was around $700.

Polymetal bought the Varvarinskoye gold and copper deposit from the Kazakhstani Orsu Metals in November 2009.

The deposit's reserves were estimated at 92.2 million tons of ore (3.103 million ounces of gold).

In 2010 Polymetal produced 78,300 ounces of gold and 4,003 tons of copper at the deposit.

Thomson Reuters Miners urge Kazakhstan to remove investment barriers URL: http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/04/19/mining-kazakhstan-idUSL6E8FJE8V20120419 http://af.reuters.com/article/metalsNews/idAFL6E8FJE8V20120419 http://www.miningne.ws/pg/mining/news/99167/miners-urge-kazakhstan-to-remove-investmentbarriers http://eng.bizmedia.kz/news/subject_of_the_day/print:page,1,2091-miners-urge-kazakhstan-to-removeinvestment.html http://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/miners-urge-kazakhstan-remove-investment-163016018.html Thu Apr 19, 2012 12:30pm EDT

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media * Miners deterred by bureaucracy, lack of clarity * Exploration required to replace depleted reserves * Kazakhstan highly prospective in copper, gold, zinc

By Robin Paxton ASTANA, April 19 (Reuters) - Mining companies active in Kazakhstan urged authorities on Thursday to remove bureaucratic hurdles to investment in order to encourage overdue exploration of prospective metals deposits in the Central Asian state.

Though extensively mapped by Soviet geologists, Kazakhstan must act quickly to uncover new deposits of copper, gold and other metals that will replace fast-depleting existing reserves, several mining executives and consultants told a conference.

"Exploration is a thriving business around the world, but it is not thriving in this region," said David Pearce, general director of SRK Consulting. "Companies need to have the confidence that, if they do the exploration, they can develop the mine and achieve the economic reward."

Kazakhstan's uranium reserves are second only to Australia's. The former Soviet republic, Central Asia's biggest economy, also holds the world's largest chromium reserves and substantial copper, zinc, iron ore and bauxite deposits.

Despite its prospectivity, Kazakhstan receives less than 1 percent of global investment in metals exploration, several officials at the 3rd annual MINEX Central Asia forum said.

Companies including global mining giant Rio Tinto and London-listed ENRC have grown frustrated at red tape encountered by miners seeking to establish a presence in the vast steppe nation of 16.7 million people.

"A lack of transparency in the tender process means that foreign investors do not feel confident they can get a fair hearing," said Chris Welton, Rio Tinto's general manager for exploration in Central Asia.

"The decision on awarding tenders is driven solely on the signing bonus and the social contribution, with no consideration of the technical competence of the winner or the winner's ability to develop that project," he said.

"Investors are reticent to present their ideas as the chance of them winning the subsequent tender are slim."

First Deputy Prime Minister Serik Akhmetov said the government had begun work to simplify the procedure of granting mining exploration licences.

"It's important to create the optimum conditions for attracting investment, technology and opening up new mineral deposits that can help replenish depleting reserves and create the economic stimulus for development," he told the forum.

JUNIOR MINERS Central Asia Metals is one of relatively few junior miners in Kazakhstan to have taken a project through to production. The company is producing copper extracted from waste dumps from a Soviet-era mine near the central city of Balkhash.

"I built a project in 18 months," said Chief Executive Nick Clarke. "It can be done, but it wasn't done without a lot of heartache and a lot of bureaucracy. We've achieved an awful lot, but we could do with more help."

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media Central Asia Metals built its Kounrad project within budget of $47 million and is ramping up copper cathode output to 10,000 tonnes per year. The company has plans to expand output further.

"There has to be, from our perspective, less bureaucracy," said Clarke. "Time costs money and, in terms of companies like ours, that's investors' money. It's inefficient for us to spend too much time on lengthy bureaucratic delays."

Another London-listed miner, Frontier Mining, aims to be producing 30,000 tonnes a year of copper from three Kazakh deposits by 2016, company president Yerlan Sagadiyev said.

But less than 15 percent of Kazakhstan's explored metals reserves are currently in production, official data show, with only 75 of 282 identified gold deposits and 19 of 55 iron ore deposits in operation.

An official from ENRC, which has most of its assets in Kazakhstan, said it had been easier for the company to secure licences in Brazil and the Democratic Republic of Congo than in its home country.

"It takes three months, without any problems, to receive state permission to open up new deposits in Brazil or the (Democratic Republic of) Congo," said Nariman Aripov, director of ENRC Kazakhstan's mining department.

"In Kazakhstan, where we have been working for many years, there's a moratorium and we are not permitted to do this."

As the national mining champion and a unit of the sovereign wealth fund, state-owned Tau-Ken Samruk is exempt from the current moratorium on new licences.

Rio Tinto, its potential partner in a copper exploration project in northern Kazakhstan, hopes an imminent deal with the state company could prove the catalyst for foreign investment in Kazakhstan.

Aibek Izhanov, chief geologist for Tau-Ken Samruk, told reporters initial investment in the proposed project to explore for copper in Kostanai region, near the Russian border, could total about $100 million.

"I strongly believe that foreign investors will be key in developing the mining sector in Kazakhstan," Rio Tinto's Welton said. "A few simple changes can be implemented to make this one of the leading mining centres in the world."

Trend News Agency

Agency

URL: http://en.trend.az/capital/business/2016463.html http://en.trend.az/capital/business/2016514.html Reduction of bureaucratic obstacles to help attract investors in Kazakhstan’s mining sector 19 April 2012, 19:37 (GMT+05:00)

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Kazakhstan, Astana, 19 April / D. Mukhtarov / Reducing bureaucratic obstacles will help to attract even more investors in the mining sector of Kazakhstan, Director General of Central Asia Metals plc Nick Clarke believes.

"The Kazakh government to attract foreign investors in the mining sector, where there is great potential for production, should create conditions so that small and medium-sized mining companies come here in the first place. By creating the conditions I mean the reduction of bureaucratic obstacles, since for small and medium-sized companies time is money," said Clarke, speaking on Thursday at the III International mining forum "MINEX-Central Asia-2012" in Astana.

As an example, he cited his production, which operates in Kazakhstan. The Central Asia Metals plc Company opened an enterprise in the Karaganda region for the production of cathode copper in December last year.

The cost of the project is $16.9 million.

"We opened a company in 18 months, but could cope with it for even a shorter period," said Clarke.

GPW senior analyst Kate Mallinson also expressed an opinion on the problems faced by investors who choose to enter the mining sector in Kazakhstan.

She said one of these problems is a frequent change of akims (governors) of provinces.

"Investors need to remember that one of the legacies of the Soviet Union is the bureaucracy, and there are local levels which enjoy the benefits of working with companies ... It is important to have friendly relations with local officials, local staff in order to avoid problems at the local level, which may be of a large scale," said Mallinson.

Summing up the third day of the forum "MINEX-Central Asia-2012," First Deputy Prime Minister Serik Ahmetov has assured that Kazakhstan will continue to simplify the procedures involved in obtaining subsoil use rights.

"Work is underway to reduce administrative barriers and simplify licensing procedures. Their reduction is significant today. We move on to simplify the licensing procedures relating to the procedures for obtaining subsoil use rights," said Ahmetov.

Foreign Office URL: http://ukinkz.fco.gov.uk/en/news/?view=Speech&id=755689282

MINEX Central Asia – 3rd Mining and Mineral Exploration Forum and Expo 20 April 2012 British Ambassador speaks at the MINEX Central Asia – 3rd Mining and Mineral Exploration Forum and Expo, 18 April 2012.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Speaker: David Moran, British Ambassador to Kazakhstan Event:

MINEX Central Asia – 3rd Mining and Mineral Exploration Forum and Expo

Location: Astana

I am delighted to greet participants at the third MINEX forum. I have been lucky enough to take part in Minex meetings from the beginning in 2010, and am glad to see the conference continuing to flourish as an important forum for exchanging expertise and contacts.

The mining industry in Kazakhstan is a highly important driver for economic development and growth accounting for some 17% of GDP. This can only rise in the future, given Kazakhstan’s great mineral wealth, export orientation and growing global demand. The sector will also contribute to Kazakhstan’s economic and social objectives, through its contribution to regional development, diversification and jobs creation.

I know that many British companies are already involved with the exciting developments in the sector, most in tandem with Kazakhstani partners. These companies offer strong UK and international expertise, built up over many years. We have an excellent track record of project management and delivery and our service and supply chain companies ensure that large and complex projects remain on track. We are well placed to help with the introduction of new technologies in exploration, production and processing of mineral resources, the utilization of automatic process control systems and the training and development of personnel according to industry best practice.

As well as specialising in many technical areas of mining, we are also in the forefront of new developments in mining safety and low carbon technologies. These bring new opportunities for bilateral commercial relations.

Waste management is another area where the UK expertise can help local producers to improve knowledge and to comply with environmental requirements for mining and metallurgy operations.

For example, British experts are among those working on ways to reduce levels of lead circulated from smelters – which I know is a matter of concern to the Kazakh authorities. Kazakhstan’s traditional environmental awareness is a product of painful legacies from the past in areas such as the Polygon and the Aral Sea. British companies are ready and waiting to working alongside Kazakh mining experts in all areas of health and safety.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

About 80-90% of ferrous and non-ferrous metals produced in Kazakhstan are exported. I have personally seen how British-Kazakh commercial collaboration is adding value to Kazakh exports. In November I visited Cambridge University with a senior Samruk Kazyna delegation. We were shown how innovation can be translated into lucrative business opportunities when a machine tool made of highly refined Kazakh rare earth metals was selling for nearly twice the price of the previous version.

One of the lessons of the past decade is that all countries must continually improve their investment climate.

Kazakhstan has had its candidate status for the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) extended for a further 18 months to August 2013. EITI aims to set a global standard for transparency in oil, gas and mining. It is a coalition of governments, companies and civil society that provides a standard for companies to publish what they pay and for governments to disclose what they receive, in an effort to make natural resources benefit all. EITI is of benefit to Kazakhstan for many reasons, such as giving international recognition, demonstrating regional leadership, and encouraging further international investment. We hope that the Government of Kazakhstan will engage strongly with this initiative and that in August next year we can celebrate Kazakhstan becoming a member of the EITI family.

It is good to see strong UK involvement at MINEX alongside major Kazakhstani and international mining companies. I look forward to the contributions of committed and experienced companies such as SRK, Wardell Armstrong, Rio Tinto, Hambledon Mining, Central Asia Metals and Frontier Mining. I wish the organisers and all participants an interesting and successful event. Thank you for your attention.

Kaz Pravda URL: http://www.kazpravda.kz/c/1334829746 EXPLORATION, PRODUCTION AND PROSPECTS. ASTANA IS HOSTING THE III MINING FORUM “MINEX CENTRAL ASIA-2012″ Author: admin | 20 Apr 2012 Apr 19. Kazpravda

By Maryam TUREZHANOVA Kazakhstan today is among major world players in the mining sector. Astana was not accidentally chosen the place to host the III mining forum “Minex Central Asia 2012″. Yesterday, during the first day of the meeting, more than 450 delegates from 200 national and international companies discussed the most pressing issues of development of this powerful direction of economy.

It should be noted that Kazakhstan is today a key leader in Central Asia. Moreover, as the president of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, Jan Lewis said, the republic can join the structure of BRICS. Natural resources attract many investors to the country, which gives Kazakhstan, said Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media of Great Britain to RK David Moran, the new technologies, experience in work with the staff, and the introduction of novelties in the labor safety and environmental protection.

At the same time D. Moran advised to encourage promotion of small and medium-sized companies on the Kazakhstani market, in addition to the industry giants. Kazakhstan’s joining the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative will bring huge advantage to the development of the branch and attract additional investment, according to the speaker. The head of the diplomatic mission hopes that this will happen later this year.

We also must develop the industry at the account of our own means, in particular through improvement of technical equipment. Great help in this regard could become a joint strategic program of electronic technologies development of the EEC countries. It will be launched next year and last up to 2017, informed M.Musatayev, deputy secretary general of Eurasian Economic Community at the “MINEX”. In addition, an important component of the integration process is the activity of a high-tech center established by the decision of the Head of State in February 2009. The Center coordinates the work to develop scientific and technological infrastructure and research activities and promotes the joint development of innovative programs.

- Today, about 60 out of 220 innovation projects in the field of renewable energy technologies, engineering, nanotechnology, electronics, computer engineering, biomedical technology and ecology, received from the states of the Community and the Republic of Armenia, have been approved, and eight are under examination, - informed M. Musatayev.

The innovative component is particularly relevant for geological exploration in Kazakhstan. Therefore, RK Government is going to increase public funding of regional exploration work up to 60bln a year. This was announced by the vice-minister of industry and new technologies Nurlan Sauranbayev. At the same time this does not prevent the use of the PPP mechanisms (private-public partnership).

It is spelled out in the Concept on development of RK geology up to 2030, drafted by the MINT. Experts from the ministry identified the main goals for the industry: modernization of the state system of programoriented planning and carrying out exploration work; strengthening of public finance projects, which are risky at their early stage; improving the legal base. Furthermore, the concept focuses on the development of infrastructure, primarily in regard to academic institutions.

- The industry first of all needs a powerful research center with modern laboratory and full range of analysis of geological samples, - said N. Sauranbayev.

We use, -he noted, -researches held back in the 60s. Kazakhstan should begin to explore deep deposits. This is the way of many world powers. Kazakhstan needs to estimate reserves of coal, iron ores and other minerals.

The main emphasis in geological exploration will be placed on the application of new technologies.

Today the Forum “MINEX Central Asia-2012″ will continue its work. On the agenda there are such issues as the discovery of new deposits in the region; leaders of the mining industry; investment financing and increase productivity in the branch.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media URL: http://www.kazpravda.kz/c/1334913400 High conversion with intellectual constituent. The 3rd mining &exploration forum “MINEX” is going on 20.04.2012 The Forum aims to unlock immense mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asian region and enhance competitiveness and professional dialogue in technical, regulatory, education and investment aspects of mining and mineral exploration. That in turn necessitates a favorable investment climate in the country, consequently – transparency in the industry and bringing down of the administrative hurdles, First Deputy Prime Minister Serik Akhmetov told the III mining forum "Minex Central Asia 2012".

First of all S. Akhmetov underscored the importance of this forum, already a traditional venue for the identification of trends, outlook for the mining industry in Central Asian region and increasing topicality of mineral resources development to our country.

- Mining is a priority industry in our economy – the Deputy PM went on. - Kazakhstan is among world leaders in diversity of mineral resources, and over the independence years its major mining companies, such as Kazakhmys Corp, ENRC, Kazzinc, have reached the world scale, considerably contributing to the national economy.

However the resource base alone is not enough, we also need to focus on the intellectual constituent in the extractive industries, introduce advanced production management methods, S. Akhmetov said. To attract investment and advanced technologies in exploration and development of new mineral deposits- another important task – requires developed infrastructure and expertise, reduction of administrative hurdles and red tape ( and they have considerably reduced already), facilitation of licensing.

The recently started industrial upgrade is well underway, said Serik Akhmetov. -The primary task now is transition to the new conversions, new technologies, which is especially important for the mining and metallurgical complex. With the increasing competition, Kazakhstan’s integration into the world mineral market largely depends on the competitiveness of the industry inside the country.

At the same time, according to CEO of Central Asia Metals Nick Clark, conditions have to be created for small and medium-sized companies in the industry, it’s the world practice.

The existing problems in the industry do not stop the companies, they do not intend to curtail their activities, but go on. For example, the Frontier Mining Ltd CEO Sagadiev Erlan reported on the adoption of a new to Kazakhstan copper leaching technology, and by the year 2016 they expect to produce 30 thousand tons of copper a year. Other actors in Kazakhstan mineral resources sector are building plans too.

The forum also discussed improvement of productivity and reducing costs of mining enterprises, management of debt and investment financing of the businesses, human resources policies.

Maryam TUREZHANOVA

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Proactive Investors URL: http://www.proactiveinvestors.com/companies/news/27945/frontier-mining-kicks-off-productionat-benkala-27945.html http://kazworld.info/?p=20969

By Philip Whiterow Frontier Mining (LON:FML) today confirmed that production has begun at its Benkala copper project in Kazakhstan, with the milestone of its first copper cathode expected in June.

Mining is currently at an on-going daily rate of 1,500 tonnes per day of ore, which will ramp up to 8,000 tonnes per day as normal operations are established. Current stockpiled ore totals approximately 25,000 tonnes.

Frontier added that its first 660 tonne shipment of sulphuric acid has also arrived, which will enable it to begin leaching operations while the railway storage complex has been connected to the main railway line along with on-site acid storage facilities.

The leaching process is expected to begin 30 days after the crushing operation has settled down to normal capacity.

First production in June 2012 would be as as previously scheduled.

The 2012 target production level is expected between 3,500 to 5,000 tonnes compared to the plants operating capacity of 7,000 tonnes per annum.

Erlan Sagadiev, Frontier’s chief executive said: “With the first copper cathode production at Benkala fast approaching, we are advancing towards a key milestone in Frontier’s history.

The company’s construction and operations teams are working at full capacity to ensure the smooth start of production as quickly as possible, accelerating towards our goal of establishing Frontier as a premier midtier copper producer.”

Frontier has a 100 per cent interest in Benkala through its subsidiary KazCopper. It also owns Baitemir, a potential copper gold porphyry deposit in North East Kazakhstan.

Frontier Mining Ltd is a mineral exploration and development Company focussed on gold and copper deposits in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, Frontier locates, evaluates, acquires, explores and develops mineral properties. Frontier currently operates two licenses in Kazakhstan, Naimanjal (100% owned) and Benkala (50% owned). Naimanjal operations currently consist of five projects; a producing gold mine, a test stage gold production project, a potential copper porphyry deposit with associated gold and molybdenum, and copper/gold prospects along a 25km trend including both VMS and porphyry types. Benkala is a copper-molybdenum-gold deposit located in north-western Kazakhstan, within the Urals gold/copper ore belt.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

Bloomberg URL: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-04-18/rio-tinto-to-invest-100-million-in-kazakh-copperproject-1-.html RIO TINTO TO INVEST $100 MILLION IN KAZA KH COPPER PROJECT Apr 18. Bloomberg

By Svetlana Antoncheva

Rio Tinto Group is planning to invest about $100 million to explore for copper in northern Kazakhstan as the world’s third-biggest mining company seeks to reserves of the metal used in electronics and pipes.

Rio Tinto will fully fund the exploration work, which may start this year, Chris Welton, general manager for exploration in Central Asia, told reporters today in the capital, Astana. The company formed a 50-50 venture last year with Tau-Ken Samruk, a mining unit of Kazakhstan’s wealth fund Samruk-Kazyna, to tap the country’s mineral resources.

Rio Tinto and Tau-Ken Samruk are close to signing a final agreement on exploration prospects in the Kostanai region in northern Kazakhstan, said Aibek Izhanov, the state-controlled unit’s chief geologist.

If exploration is successful, construction will probably cost about $700 million to $1 billion, based on the average capital costs to build a world-class large copper-mine, Welton said. Tau-Ken Samruk will be expected to fund its share of the construction costs, he said.

Tengri News Buying parts of Kazakhstan will be made easier Sunday, 22.04.2012, 10:45 Kazakhstan steppes. Photo courtesy of venividi.ru Kazakhstan is going to cut administrative barriers and simplify approval procedures related to obtaining subsoil use rights, Liter writes citing first deputy PrimeMinister Serik Akhmetov as saying at the 3rd International mining industry forum Minex-Central Asia2012 in Astana.

“We are moving forward to simplify approval procedures and the whole bureaucratic machine related to the procedures of obtaining subsoil use rights,” the official said.

Head of Central Asia Metals PLC Nick Clark also mentioned expedience of red take cuts at the conference.

“What should the Governmnet of Kazakhstan do to attract foreign investors into the mining sector where production potential is especially high? Conditions should be created to attract small and medium mining companies to Kazakhstan. And by creation of conditions I mean cutting red tape because it costs too much money for small and medium companies,” he said.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

According to Director of Central Asian Geological Exploration Management Rio Tinto Chris Welton, the investors do not feel themselves confident in Kazakhstan because of insufficient transparency during tenders.

“The tender process itself frequently makes the investor’s chances of winning it very low and dubious,” he said.

Halyk Finance URL: http://www.halykfinance.kz/en/site/index/research/news:80563 PDF version: http://www.halykfinance.kz/en/hf_research/pdf_version/news/80563 Mariyam Zhumadil — April 20, 2012

Polymetal is in talks with the Government of Kazakhstan to buy two mines in the country, said the company's CEO, Mr.Vitaliy Nesis, at the MINEX Central Asia 2012 Congress.

Polymetal is also holding discussions with Tau-Ken Samruk over possible joint ventures on explorations projects.

In 2012, Polymetal plans to produce 101koz of gold (+10% YoY) and 6.3kt of copper (-10% YoY) at its wholly-owned Varvarinskoye copper-gold mine located in north-western Kazakhstan. To boost bottom-line output, the company plans to purchase gold ore from third parties for processing at its facilities. Total resources of Varvarinskoye deposit are estimated at 92.9Mt of ore at average grades of 1.05g/t Au and 0.54% Cu, equivalent of 97Moz of gold and 502kt of copper. The processing capacity of the flotation plant on site is 4.2Mtpa of ore, and Polymetal is currently building a railway spur to provide feed to the plant from other deposits.

Hambledon Mining plans to complete acquisition of Akmola Gold in 2H2012

URL: http://www.halykfinance.kz/en/site/index/research/news:80561 PDF version http://www.halykfinance.kz/en/hf_research/pdf_version/news/80561 Mariyam Zhumadil — April 20, 2012 Hambledon Mining plans to finalize negotiations with Tau-Ken Samruk over the purchase of Akmola Gold in the next three to four months, reported local news agency KazTag citing comments made by the company's CEO Mr. Tim Daffern at Minex Central Asia 2012 conference.

Hambledon expects to invest in the project $5mn this year and another $20mn in 2013.

The company's long-term strategy is to become one of the largest gold producers in Kazakhstan and by 2017 increase its gold annual output fivefold to 100koz. Production is to grow with the ramp-up of underground mine at Sekisovskoye and the start of production at Akmola Gold.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

At the same conference, addressing concerns of foreign investors, Serik Akhmetov, the First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan, promised to reduce red tape associated with issuance of new mining licenses.

Our view. The announcement is neutral for HMB. The receipt of Akmola Gold waiver from the GoK has already been delayed by two months, and another three-four months delay comes at no surprise. We are more interested in the outcome of the negotiations with Tau-Ken Samruk, because, if the Government receives a majority stake in the project, HMB is likely to decline further. We cover Hambledon Mining with a 12-month target price of 3.4GBp and a 'Hold' recommendation.

CA-NEWS URL: http://en.ca-news.org/news:470041/ Kazakh government to increase funding for geological exploration 19 April 2012, 15:15 CA-NEWS (KZ) - Kazakh government will annually allocate up to 60 billion tenge (147.54/$1) on geological exploration, said Vice Minister of Industry and New Technologies Nurlan Sauranbaev, Interfax-Kazakhstan agency reported.

"At the request of the President of Kazakhstan, the government has increased financing for regional exploration. Depending on the year, an average of 60 billion tenge will be allocated annually for geological surveys," Sauranbaev said at the third MINEX Mining Forum in Astana on Wednesday.

"The government will fund prospecting in the regions, but if private companies want to offer their services at this stage, we will be all too happy to welcome private capital," said Sauranbaev.

Sauranbaev noted that Kazakhstan has an objective need to expand geological exploration.

"All new deposits are expected to occur at a greater depth, therefore, we will focus on the deeper exploration. Estimating the available reserves, we have a long production life of coal and iron ore deposits, nearly 300-500 years at a current pace of consumption. However, such mineral resources as gold, copper and polymetals need to be replenished, as we will run out of them in 20-40 years. New geological exploration projects will focus on applying new deep exploration technologies and prospecting for nonferrous metals," he said.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan URL: http://portal.mfa.kz/portal/page/portal/mfa/en/content/news/ASTANA%20CALLING%202012/201204-20

Exploration, Production & Prospects in Mining Discussed in Astana The 3rd Mining and Exploration Forum “MINEX Central Asia 2012� was held in Astana on April 17-19.

Over 450 delegates from 200 local and international companies, 60 speakers and 25 company exhibitors attended the Forum that aimed to unlock the immense mineral potential of Kazakhstan and Central Asia , as well as enhance professional dialogue in technical, regulatory, educational, and investment aspects of mining and mineral exploration. The three-day programme included over 70 presentations by companies and government officials, in addition to master classes by professionals in geology, mining, Information Technology, consulting, and other spheres.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media Speaking at the Forum, First Deputy Prime Minister Serik Akhmetov noted that mining remains one of the priority industries in the Kazakhstan economy. “Kazakhstan holds one of the leading positions on a variety of mineral resources. Over the years of independence, Kazakhstan’s largest mining companies, such as Kazakhmys, ENRC, and Kazzinc, have risen to the level of global companies and are making a great contribution to the country’s economy,” Akhmetov said.

According to Akhmetov, having only a developed resource base is not enough. It is important to attract investments and new technologies to this sphere. In this regard, the Eurasian strategic programme of electronic technologies development of the member states of the Eurasian Economic Community could become a good platform.

The Programme’s implementation is to start next year and will last until 2017, Deputy Secretary General of the EurAsEC Murat Musatayev said. The activity of the Centre for High Technologies, established by heads of of member states in February 2009, could also become an important part of development processes in mining.

Head of the National Geological Exploration Company “Kazgeologiya,” Bulat Uzhkenov, stated that Kazakhstan can expect the opening of new oil, gas, uranium, and coal fields. In particular, discovery of new oil and gas fields are anticipated in the East Kazakhstan region.

The innovative component is particularly important for geologic exploration in Kazakhstan, which is why the Government is planning to increase public funding of regional exploration works up to KZT 60 billion a year. This was announced by the Deputy Minister of Industry and New Technologies Nurlan Sauranbayev. According to the Ministry’s Strategy for geology development until 2030, funding is also possible through the use of PPPs. The Forum participants also discussed the need to reduce administrative barriers and simplify licensing procedures in Kazakhstan in order to attract investments. Head of Central Asia Metals PLC Nick Clarke spoke in favour of eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic procedures. “Time costs money and, in terms of small and medium-sized companies like ours, that is investors’ money. It is inefficient for us to spend too much time on lengthy bureaucratic delays,” Clarke noted.

Serik Akhmetov assured that bureaucratic problems faced by investors are not unsolvable, and spoke about the practical steps the Government is taking in this direction. “Measures to reduce administrative barriers and simplify licensing procedures are being taken. The results are already significant, and we are continuing to move forward to simplify licensing procedures and the whole bureaucratic machine that is used in processes related to subsoil use rights,” Akhmetov said.

British Ambassador to Kazakhstan David Moran, in his turn, noted that Kazakhstan’s joining the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) will facilitate the inflow of investments into the country’s economy. He expressed hope that Kazakhstan joins the Initiative by next year.

These problems by no means are stopping companies operating in the industry. Enterprises presented at the Forum spoke on their plans for the future. The British Hambledon Mining Ltd. plans to increase gold production in Sekisovskoe deposit in east Kazakhstan up to 100 thousand troy ounces by the end of 2017, and hopes to complete negotiations with the Kazakhstan government on buying a gold deposit situated 140 km away from Astana.

Another London-listed miner, Frontier Mining, aims to be producing 30,000 tonnes of copper a year by 2016, the Company’s president Yerlan Sagadiyev said. Other miners, including Rio Tinto, Polymetal and Tau-Ken Samruk, presented their operating results and prospects for the future.

One of the issues discussed at the Forum was the interaction between foreign companies and Kazakhstan’s government. According to GPW’s senior analyst Kate Mallinson, foreign companies need to have locals in the top management of their subsidiaries in Kazakhstan in order to better understand the everchanging Kazakh legislation. Executives on the ground can interpret any law or other legislative act in different ways, and only Kazakhstan managers are able to consider all the possible interpretations and reactions.

Mallinson also noted that Kazakhstan is an ambitious country with ambitious goals, and does not want to be just a country with rich mineral resources, but wants its exports to be innovative. “Therefore, foreign companies need to stick to this strategy. There are issues of hi-tech and knowledge transfer and companies have to complete it swiftly, and do it in the right way,” Mallinson concluded.

The Forum also discussed issues of improving performance and cutting costs, effective approaches to organising debt and investment financing, and modern approaches to human resources policy in mining enterprises.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

CaspioNet URL: http://caspionet.kz/kaz/general/Kazakhstan_develops_new_strategy_for_mining_sector_development_1334 895134.html

NEWS (20.04.2012)

Kazakhstan develops new strategy for mining sector development About 850 kilograms of gold will be produced this year in East Kazakhstan.

One of the largest subsoil users announced its plans at Minex, the third Central-Asian mining forum. A British developer also plans to acquire another gold deposit near Astana. According to geologists, the reserves of the Akmola-gold deposit stand at one and a half tons of gold. The negotiations with the government on the deposit purchase are expected to last for about 4 months. According to Kazakh First Deputy Prime Minister Serik Akhmetov, Kazakhstan is developing a new strategy for developing the mining industry. This involves the creation of effective conditions for attracting investment in advanced technology. Foreign companies will also have to develop infrastructure, train local staff and promote regional development on the whole.

Serik Akhmetov, Kazakh First Deputy Prime Minister : -It is very important for us to attract investments in this sector because mining gives boost to new technologies and high added values. This spurs the development of local industrial sector and processing industry. Therefore, the government and public policy will aim at it.

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MINEX Central Asia 2012 Forum coverage in the news and media

RIA Novosti URL: http://de.rian.ru/business/20120418/263384931.html 3ème forum minier «MINEX Central Asia 2012» à Astana Dans le cadre du 3ème forum minier qui s’est ouvert hier à l’Hôtel Radisson à Astana, des diplomates et des experts ont apporté leurs recommandations au Gouvernement kazakhstanais afin d’attirer les investissements vers l’industrie minière.

Notamment, les Ambassadeurs de Grande-Bretagne et du Canada conseillent de réduirele poids de la bureaucratie et de rendre le secteur minier plus transparent.

De son côté, un expert de la société de conseil GPW, Mme Kate Mallinson, suggère de multiplier les contacts avec les autorités locales et de nommer aux fonctions de directeur les spécialistes kazakhstanais qui comprennent mieux les procédures bureaucratiques et ont les connaissances nécessaires.

Ce forum accueille plus de 450 délégués de 200 compagnies. Le forum « MINEX Central Asia 2012 » est le plus grand forum d’exposition d’Asie Centrale. (Interfax-KZ)

Silberpreis fällt nach 2013 - CRU 12:39 18/04/2012 ASTANA (Kasachstan), 18. April (RIA Novosti). mehr zum Thema 

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Das Londoner Forschungsunternehmen CRU erwartet nach 2013 eine Senkung des Preises und der Produktion von Silber. Das teilte Rodrik Cave, CRU-Direktor für Russland, Osteuropa und Zentralasien, am Mittwoch mit. „Nach 2013 erwarten wir eine Senkung des Preises und der Produktion, weil heute die Produktion recht hoch ist und sich eine große Menge von Silber in den Lagern angesammelt hat“, sagte Cave auf dem dritten Bergbauforum „Minex Central Asia 2012“.

Diese Situation wird sich jedoch seiner Meinung nach gegen 2016 ändern und Silber werde wiederum im Preis steigen. Auch der Produktionsumfang werde dann erneut zunehmen.

In diesem Zusammenhang verwies der CRU-Direktor darauf, dass die kasachischen Silberlieferungen drei Prozent des Gesamtumfanges der globalen Lieferungen betragen. „Das sind unsere Prognosen. Wenn etwas Unerwartetes im Iran und in Südkorea geschieht, so kann sich das Bild vollständig ändern. Derzeit wird sehr viel in Hedgegeschäfte investiert. Jegliche unvorhergesehenen Umstände von Weltmaßstab können großen Einfluss auf Preise und Produktion ausüben“, sagte Cave abschließend.

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