An Australian company wanting to mine bauxite in Solomon Islands has had its exploration licence rescinded.
AU Capital Mining was exploring in Nende in the remote eastern province of Temotu, but it has been notified by the Mining Minister, Bradley Tovosia that their prospecting to date has been unsatisfactory.
The minister went on to say that the company had failed to establish amicable relations with the local communities in Nende - something that is required under the agreement.
AU Capital Mining obtained an initial provincial business licence a year ago but it has been confronted by significant opposition in Nende ever since.
Temotu locals want to protect their land against devastation from mining activities. Photo: Facebook