Up at the China Mine

It has recently been suggested that Liberia commit one of their
iron ore mines to the People's Republic of China in exchange for
the development of road network. (I hope that was something more
than a road to and from the mine.)

Clearly, China may be a willing partner. They certainly seem to
have the capital. Who wouldn't trade some roads for millions of
tons of iron ore?

However, we must consider the record. Somebody over at Lands and
Mines might do well to trust but verify at least the following
items:

China's record on modern mining practices.
China's record on mine safety.
China's record on worker relations.
China's record on environmental protection.
China's record on value added sustainable development.

No problem Liberia's experience with recent contract negotiations
has provided Lands and Mines with plenty of lessons learned.

Bureau of Lands and Mines will do everything in its power to
ensure scientific mining practices. As a regulatory body, they
have a reputation to uphold. They have plenty of staff and
inspection/technical capabilities at this time when mining output
is due for a huge increase, and when powerful individuals make
recommendations to issue mining concessions based on wishful thinking.
As for either efficiency or incorruptibility, we will not be let down
again. So let the Chinese come, no problem.

EarlyBird