HONIARA, 10 July 2025 (TATOLI) — A high-level delegation from Timor-Leste, led by Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Francisco da Costa Monteiro, visited the Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) site in Central Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on Thursday, 10 July 2025.
The delegation included officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (MPRM), the National Minerals Authority (ANM), Murak Rai Timor (MRT), the Timor-Leste Geosciences Institute (IGTL), the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), and the g7+ Secretariat.
They were accompanied by Solomon Islands Minister of Mines, Energy, and Rural Electrification, Derrick Rawcliff Manuari, and warmly welcomed with a traditional ceremony by GRML Director Walton Naezon, Deputy Executive Mine Manager Xiangwen Song, and other company representatives.
In his remarks at the mine site, Minister Monteiro expressed his gratitude and described the visit as part of the broader g7+ mission to promote peer learning among fragile and post-conflict countries.
“It is a great honor and privilege to be here today. We are deeply grateful for the warm welcome and the opportunity to visit and learn about your operations. On behalf of the Timor-Leste delegation, I sincerely thank you for your warm hospitality and generous reception,” said Monteiro.
g7+ Secretary-General Helder da Costa also commended the visit and recognized Gold Ridge as a compelling example of economic recovery and resilience.
“This is an exemplary model of economic transformation in a country transitioning from fragility to stability—transforming its economy for the benefit of its people. I witnessed this myself. This is my second time here since last year when we observed the general elections, which were well-run and serve as a model for other countries to follow,” said da Costa.
Minister Manuari described the visit as an opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation in the mining sector.
“Gold Ridge is a key player in our mining industry. We value your contribution to the economy and to local development. We look forward to continued close collaboration to ensure that we not only support our communities but also drive the nation forward,” he said.
The Gold Ridge mine, operated by GRML, is the first and largest gold mine in the Solomon Islands. It is jointly owned by Wanguo International Mining Group (70%), AXF Resources (20%), and the local community through Goldridge Communities Investment Ltd (10%).
Located approximately 22 kilometers from the capital, Honiara, the mine consists of four major gold deposits. Operations recently resumed after a period of reconstruction.
GRML currently aims to export at least 500 kilograms of gold per month, with full production capacity expected to be reached by next year.
Beyond gold production, GRML is also involved in community development projects, including initiatives to improve electricity and internet access in rural areas.
Journalist: Cidalia Fátima
Editor: Filomeno Martins
