Based on materials from Prime-TASS and AK&M.

The Federation Council is concerned about the situation about the contest Sukhoi Log deposit (Irkutsk region) selling. It asks the Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov to inform the Council about measures taken by the Government of Russia in this connection.

Gold ore deposit Sukhoi Log is located in Irkutsk region. It is one of the largest deposits in the world; moreover, platinum, palladium and rhodium are fixed to be present in the deposit’s ore. According to preliminary forecasts, the exploration and exploitation works at the deposit will require not less than $2 bln.

The deputy chairman of the Government Viktor Khristenko charged the Ministries of Nature and Economic Development to consider (together with Irkutsk region administration) the questions connected with the deposit selling. However, the order of the contest has not been yet determined and its conditions have not been published.

In order to protect geological and political interests of the country in the sphere of gold mining and to develop domestic gold mining industry, the Federation Council regards it necessary to allow only Russian companies to participate in the contest.

MMC Norilsk Nickel, Polimetall Company, RUSAL, Canadian Barrick Gold, British Fleming Family & Partners and Highland Gold Mining Companies have already shown their interests in the participation in the contest for the Sukhoi Log deposit selling.