Maximo Pacheco held the role of energy minister from 2014 to 2016 during socialist ex-President Michelle Bachelet's administration

Tenke is one of the world’s most important sources of cobalt, a mineral used in electric car batteries.

The transaction will add over 740 sqkm of land to Skeena’s holding, for a sevenfold increase.

The Gunnison project is permitted to produce 125 million lb. of copper cathode a year.

Arriagada also said the company is still looking to develop its Twin Metals project despite the Biden administration's refusal to renew its licenses.

High shipping costs have posed a "challenge" for Democratic Republic of Congo-focused copper producer.

The rates are up 14.3% from $70 per tonne and seven cents a pound in the first quarter.