Panama president says final contract to miner First Quantum has been presented By Reuters

PANAMA CITY (Reuters) – Panama’s president, Laurentino Cortizo, said on Monday the government has presented Canadian miner First Quantum Minerals (OTC:) a final contract to regulate operations.

Cortizo, during a speech to the nation, vowed to abide by the constitution in the negotiations and to establish a “fair relationship” between the parties.

The two sides are at odds over such issues as contract stability and the government’s plan to increase annual royalties to $375 million, which has been at the forefront of discussions.

Crispiano Adames, president of the country’s National Assembly, said during a separate speech he had proposed a new mining code to avoid the needs of Panama being put behind those of multinational companies.