...Regrettably, the report contains factual errors and makes negative assumptions that misrepresent both the project and the way the Company conducts business. (These mistakes could have been avoided if the APIB had taken the time to discuss its findings with the Company before publishing its report.)

...Belo Sun has always operated in full compliance with Brazilian law and regulations in all aspects of its business, including permitting and land acquisition. The Company’s consultations with the local indigenous communities met the standard for free, prior, and informed consent set out in ILO 169...All indigenous communities potentially affected by the project were consulted and they all support the project and want to see the mine built.

...[W]e assure that there have been no instances of forced relocations, and none are planned for the future at VGP...

There are risks in any mining operation, but Belo Sun is committed to minimizing and mitigating those risks through its commitment to the principles and practices of responsible mining and the use of best practices...

...Belo Sun’s work plan in support of its environmental plan for indigenous communities (the “PBA-CI”) is being reviewed by FUNAI - the federal indigenous affairs agency...