PM Abilgaziev, Centerra Gold Inc. President discuss Kumtor project

AKIPRESS.COM - Prime Minister Muhamedkaliy Abilgaziyev met with Centerra Gold Inc. President Scott Perry, the government's press service said. Work of the Centerra Gold Inc. related to the Kumtor mine was discussed at the meeting in view of the strategic agreement that entered into force and increase of output of the mine.
Some 9.5 tons of gold were produced in 9 months of 2018 and 14.04 tons this year. Increase of gold production to 18.2 tons is expected by the end of the year.
Muhamedkaliy Abilgaziyev and Scott Perry exchanged views on further payments under the strategic agreement. The Prime Minister said regular contacts between the sides increase effectiveness of cooperation and positively impact the value of the shares of Kyrgyzstan in Centerra Gold Inc. and the value of the company on the whole.
The Prime Minister raised the issue of payment of dividends to the Kyrgyzaltyn JSC and suggested relocation of the reclamation trust fund to Kyrgyzstan.
The government is ready to provide all necessary guarantees and to promptly address all issues to set up the reclamation trust fund in Kyrgyzstan, he said.
The Prime Minister said before the shutdown of the mine it would be appropriate to place these funds in Kyrgyzstan and to use them for support of local small and medium-sized enterprises.
Scott Perry said these issues will be raised by him at the nearest meeting of the Board of Directors of the Centerra Gold Inc.