New Pacific Metals Signs Framework Agreement for Carangas Silver-Gold Project in Bolivia

New Pacific Metals Corp. (TSX: NUAG) (NYSE American: NEWP) has signed a Framework Agreement for Cooperation and Coordination with the Carangas community regarding its Carangas silver-gold project in Bolivia's Oruro Department. This agreement establishes foundational terms for transparency, mutual benefit, and long-term collaboration as the project progresses toward production. The framework outlines the company's commitments to responsible development, environmental compliance, community investment, and resettlement planning. In return, the community has agreed to support consultation processes, permitting activities, and project access, which are critical for advancing the mining initiative.

With this framework now in place, New Pacific expects to complete the formal prior consultation process required by Bolivian regulations. This step is essential for converting the project's exploration licenses into full mining permits. Upon receiving permit approval, the company plans to commence a comprehensive feasibility study and initiate a significant drilling campaign in 2026. This campaign is projected to exceed 30,000 metres of drilling, targeting both resource expansion and the identification of new mineralized zones within the Carangas project area. The agreement represents a strategic milestone for New Pacific's operations in Bolivia, where the company has been active for over a decade.

The Carangas project strengthens New Pacific's portfolio through its scale, robust economics, and regional exploration potential. The framework agreement addresses key social and environmental considerations that are increasingly important in modern mining development. By formalizing commitments to community investment and environmental compliance, New Pacific aims to build sustainable relationships with local stakeholders. The company's approach aligns with growing industry emphasis on social license to operate, particularly in jurisdictions where community support is crucial for project advancement. The agreement's focus on transparency and mutual benefit reflects evolving standards for resource development in South America.

This development follows New Pacific's ongoing work at its Silver Sand project in Potosí, which has the potential to become one of the world's largest silver mines. The company's experience in Bolivia positions it to navigate the regulatory and social landscape effectively. The framework agreement with the Carangas community represents a practical step toward de-risking the project by addressing social and regulatory requirements early in the development timeline. For investors and industry observers, the agreement signals progress toward unlocking the value of the Carangas asset while demonstrating the company's commitment to responsible development practices. Additional information about the company is available at http://ibn.fm/NEWP, while the full press release can be accessed at https://ibn.fm/WzP7f.