Firm looks for copper in northwest

ISTANBUL

Turkish mining firm Asya Mining has explored a 10 million-ton copper reserve in the northern province of Kastamonu yesterday, according to Anatolia news agency.

“This is the largest copper reserve that has ever been discovered in Turkey,” said Naci Sali, general manager of Asya Mining, noting that total volume of the reserve is expected to be approximately 10 million tons. The company is seeking international accreditation and licensing for the site through the Turkish authorities.

The exploration and mining of the reserve, located in the Hanönü district of Kastamonu, could mean great things for local residents, according to Şükrü Özün, mayor of Hanönü. “Many international companies would rush into the district, and at least 400 to 500 locals would be employed in the mine area,” he said. Turkey’s current known copper reserves total nearly 4 million tons.