In a move aimed at strengthening the economic and social well-being of Shuar communities in Ecuador, Solaris Resources (TSX:SLS; OTCQB:SLSSF) has signed a trilateral cooperation agreement with the Interprovincial Federation of Shuar Centers (FICSH) and the Alliance for Entrepreneurship and Innovation of Ecuador (AEI) during the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention.

The agreement outlines a collaborative framework for the development of various programs in Shuar communities, including those located around Solaris’ Warintza Project in Warints and Yawi. These initiatives will focus on key areas such as healthcare, education, sustainable development, and artisanal mining practices.

Mr. Froilan Juank, President of Yawi Center and member of the Board of Directors of the Strategic Alliance, commented, “The Shuar communities of Warints and Yawi support this agreement which follows from our request for FICSH to represent us and our interests and extend benefits to other member communities. We reject the false statements made by foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the Shuar Arutam People’s Associations (PSHA) which ignore our voice and speak against our interests. We are the legitimate registered owners of the Ancestral Lands on which the Warintza Project resides and we have the right and have chosen, through our General Assembly, to participate in the project through our Strategic Alliance and Impact and Benefits Agreement.”

Collaboration for Shared Goals

The collaboration signifies a joint commitment from Solaris, FICSH, and AEI to foster long-term, sustainable development for the Shuar people. FICSH, the highest governing body and largest Shuar organization in Ecuador, represents over 143,000 Shuar individuals across 500 communities. AEI, a well-established non-profit organization, brings its expertise in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation within the country. Solaris’ participation in this venture builds upon its existing membership with AEI since 2021.

Focus on Education, Healthcare, and Sustainable Practices

The agreement outlines several programs designed to address the specific needs of the Shuar communities. Working alongside the Ecuadorian Ministry of Public Health, the collaboration will provide training and support for the delivery of essential medical services in remote Shuar communities. In the education sector, the program, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, will offer training and support for the development and implementation of culturally sensitive educational programs.

Economic development initiatives will focus on providing training and technical assistance in various areas, including agricultural and business development, project management, and accounting. The agreement also acknowledges the presence of artisanal mining within FICSH territories and includes provisions for environmental, safety, and technical training, along with support for the formalization of these practices.

Mr. David Tankamash, President of FICSH, commented, “Our work aims to improve the quality of life and access to opportunities for our member Shuar Centers. We support the Warints and Yawi communities and reject the efforts of foreign NGOs who act against the will and interest of our members. This agreement, which has been approved by the will of the FICSH General Assembly, is important for inclusive and sustainable mineral resource development. The Solaris model proves the Shuar nation can partner in development opportunities on our lands. We deserve the opportunities indigenous nations have in other parts of the world and foreign NGOs must respect our choices.”

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