Panamanian Protests Spark Referendum on First Quantum Minerals' Mining Contract

Protesters in Panama have broken into an international port used by First Quantum Minerals, a Canadian mining company. The protests, which have spread throughout the country, are fueled by concerns over the potential environmental impacts of the company's mining operations. Demonstrators are demanding the repeal of a law governing the mining concession and the shutdown of the Cobre Panamá mine. In response, Panama's President has announced a ban on new metal mining concessions and expressed openness to discussing First Quantum's contract. The country's Supreme Court is also considering a lawsuit alleging that the contract violates the constitution. The mine, which is First Quantum's top money-maker, accounts for about 1.5% of global copper output.