GoviEx Uranium Inc. and Niger have agreed to suspend arbitration regarding a uranium project while pursuing negotiations. A roadmap for discussions has been established, although outcomes remain uncertain. GoviEx seeks resolution after Niger withdrew mining rights amid ongoing political changes.
GoviEx Uranium Inc., based in Vancouver, Canada, and the Republic of Niger have decided to temporarily halt ongoing arbitration proceedings during their negotiations concerning a disputed uranium project. This agreement was formalized through a letter of intent between GoviEx, its subsidiary GoviEx Niger Holdings Ltd, and the Nigerien Minister of Mines, which underscores the constructive dialogue that occurred during the recent 2025 Mining Indaba conference held in Cape Town, South Africa.
The parties have outlined a “structured roadmap” that presents a mutually acceptable negotiation plan. GoviEx announced that ongoing arbitration under the ICSID Convention will be suspended as discussions unfold within this specified framework. The suspension will remain effective until a resolution is achieved or until it is determined that no settlement can be reached.
While the companies appreciate the Republic of Niger’s commitment to dialogue, they acknowledge that there is no assurance that negotiations will culminate in a final binding agreement. If a conclusive resolution cannot be achieved, arbitration may resume accordingly.
GoviEx regards the Madaouela project as one of the largest uranium resources globally, with significant mineral reserves. Following the government’s withdrawal of mining rights last July, GoviEx had initiated arbitration proceedings in January, arguing that Niger violated its legal obligations under a previous agreement from 2007 and local laws.
The political landscape has shifted in Niger following a coup d’état in 2023, which also saw the government revoke the operating permit of French company Orano for its Imouraren uranium mine. Orano has since initiated its own arbitration proceedings against Niger concerning these issues and the subsequent loss of operational control over the Arlit uranium mine’s operator, SOMAÏR.
In summary, GoviEx Uranium Inc. and the Republic of Niger have established a roadmap to negotiate the resolution of their uranium project dispute, temporarily suspending arbitration proceedings. This agreement, formalized at a major mining conference, aims for an amicable solution. Nevertheless, uncertainties remain regarding the final outcome of the negotiations, emphasizing the complexity of the situation. GoviEx continues to focus on potential developments in its other uranium projects.
Original Source: world-nuclear-news.org
