One of the rewarding aspects of the mining industry is the positive socio-economic impact that developing new mines can have on the local populations in what are often remote and/or impoverished areas of the world.

Bema Gold had an excellent environmental and safety track record at their operations and have participated in numerous programs to improve the socio-economic environment of the regions they worked in. In the Russian Far East, where the Kupol project is located, Bema positively impacted the socio-economic environment of the Magadan Oblast and the Chukotka Autonomous Region by maximizing the number of employees hired from the regions and maximizing the use of local contractors and suppliers. Bema also supported local charities in Magadan and were a significant contributor to the construction costs of a new Russian Orthodox Church.

At B2Gold, we continue to recognize that responsible environmental stewardship and social responsibility are integral components of business in today’s world. We have recognized as corporate priorities, environmental management and the support of local communities, and we integrate environmental and social factors in the decision-making process for the Company and its subsidiaries. As we continue to develop and build on our existing exploration assets and pursue additional opportunities around the world, we will remain committed to maintaining the high standards of environmental stewardship and social responsibility that we have established.