[miningmx.com] – RANDGOLD Resources CEO, Mark Bristow, urged the government of Cote d’Ivoire to adopt an investor-friendly mining code, adding that the West African country could become one of the region’s leading gold investment destinations.
Speaking at a media conference at the company’s Tongon mine – which has delivered 600,000 ounces and $50m in royalties and taxes to Cote d’Ivoire – Bristow said the country was under-explored, had arguably the best infrastructure in West Africa, and a competent civil service.
“To exploit these advantages, the Ivorian government should ensure that its mining code, currently under review, remains investor-friendly and that it acts as a partner to the mining companies in the creation of long term economic value to benefit all stakeholders,” said Bristow.
The government of Cote d’Ivoire proposed in March 2012 several changes to its mining code including a 20% capital gains tax and a requirement for a mining convention in mining licence applications.
