Proposed Colombian Ministry Of Environment Resolution Related To Santurbán Region

VANCOUVER - Aris Mining Corporation reported that the Colombian Ministry of Environment has proposed a public consultation on a draft resolution to establish a Temporary Reserve Area (TRA) in the Santurbán region of the Santander Department, where the Soto Norte Project, which is 51% owned and operated by Aris Mining, is located. This resolution seeks to allow the Colombian Ministry of Environment to assess water resources in the area and to temporarily suspend the issuance of new environmental licenses for two years. For clarity, this proposed resolution does not affect Aris Mining's Segovia Operations, our operations at the Marmato Mine or the Lower Mine Project, all of which are licensed and located outside the designated study area.

Neil Woodyer, CEO, said, "Aris Mining continues to define its smaller-scale version of the Soto Norte Project and is moving forward with environmental and technical studies for completion in mid-2025. Our redesigned project takes a new approach compared to previous permitting submissions, featuring scaled-down mining operations and processing facilities, a reduced environmental footprint, and new processing options to support local small-scale miners. Notably, the Soto Norte Project remains several years away from development and is planned to commence following the completion of the ongoing expansions of our Segovia and Marmato Mines.

At our other Colombian sites, partnerships with small-scale miners have delivered tangible community and environmental benefits. Backed by strong support from local communities in the Soto Norte area of the Santander Department, we intend to present a fully redesigned project to the Colombian regulators following conclusion of our environmental and technical studies. We are confident that our completed development plan will comply with both Colombian and international environmental standards.  

Our new Soto Norte Project plans align with the draft resolutions' intent to prioritize environmental protection. The Soto Norte Project offers a pragmatic solution to reduce existing harm caused by informal mining activities and supports development of the local communities."