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Firstly, we would like to inform you that the media reports mentioned by your Lordships are based on untruths and misinformation, and that legal action has already been taken against the companies that published these reports.

GEOSOL clarifies that it is a company that only carries out research and drilling activities, and in relation to the operations in Campo Alegre de Lourdes/BA, contact with the superficiaries (holders of the rights to the land being researched) was made directly by the contractor Companhia Baiana de Pesquisa Mineral (CBPM), which sent technicians to the sites to provide guidance on research activities, according to the information.

It should be noted that the research and drilling activity is carried out according to the client's operational demand, by means of a tender/contract.

It should be reiterated that the authorisations for CBPM's geological surveys in the Campo Alegre de Lourdes/BA region are public knowledge and can be found on the website of the ANM (National Mining Agency), which regulates, supervises and promotes the management of Brazil's mineral resources.

Finally, it should be emphasised that the publication of news based on untruths and misinformation will subject the offender to the measures provided for by law.

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(Translated by the BHRRC)