Pioneer Lithium has signed an EEA with Slate Falls First Nations (SFFN), marking a significant step towards advancing the Root Lake Lithium Project in Ontario, Canada.

The EEA enables Pioneer Lithium to finalise, implement and continue its summer fieldwork campaigns at the project.

Pioneer Lithium executive chairman Robert Martin said: “We are pleased to have come to an agreement with Slate Falls First Nation, which now allows us to finalise early exploration activities at our Root Lake prospects.

“We appreciate the way in which Chief Lorraine Crane conducted negotiations and we look forward to working together in a strong sustainable framework.”

Spanning 1,927ha and comprising 94 claims, the project is situated roughly 100km north of Sioux Lookout and is accessible via the trans-continental road system and the all-weather Slate Falls Road.

The company stated that it will continue to work closely with SFFN throughout all stages of the project.

Pioneer Lithium believes that early-stage collaboration with indigenous communities will help build trust, create economic opportunities and ensure sustainable project progression.

The company has a 90% interest in the Root Lake exploration claims, while Rockex Mining holds a 10% stake.

SFFN councillor Freddie Sakakeesic said: “By signing this agreement, Pioneer Lithium demonstrated their commitment to working with Slate Falls First Nation to understand the importance of our land, our water and our way of life as evidenced in our community-based land use plan.

“Through respectful dialogue, the company recognised our ancestral role as stewards over the land and water by granting the community free, prior and informed consent over their mining activities in our Traditional Territory.”