3D Resources starts exploration of its Indonesian manganese deposit

Australian mining firm 3D Resources Ltd is set to start exploration of Manganese deposit in West Timor as it has finalized initial exploration targets and established local infrastructure, the company said on Wednesday.

The company has established a regional office in Atambua in West Timor and has appointed local field staff to enhance its effectiveness and to oversee its exploration programs in conjunction with the company?s Managing Director who is on site, the firm said in its statement.

3D has developed its business and political relationships in the region over a period of time and now has a strong portfolio of exploration projects it intends pursuing including 4 granted licenses and 4 license applications under option.

The company has finalized exploration programs and commenced preliminary testing on two project locations with a program of trenching and test pits already completed.

The company has also identified Manganese intersections in two of its exploration areas that are presently being reviewed by the geological field staff, it added.

The company has also started commenced discussions with potential Chinese off-takers and investors and is confident that any manganese resource can be fully exploited.

The company is continuing to evaluate several coal opportunities presented to 3D in Indonesia and has undertaken due diligence on two prospective projects, but is proceeding cautiously with detailed data review and intensive negotiations with land owners and regulatory parties to ensure any project is commercial.

The company has also been presented with several Iron Ore projects for review that it will evaluate in due course. (romel/fitri)