Minco said has acquired options over several gold projects in Russia, ranging range from near production opportunities with mining licences to exploration development.
The projects contain approximately 300,000 oz indicated and inferred of confirmed gold resources, as calculated by Russian Geological State Committee of Geology, with further substantial potential resources.
There has been substantial work completed on all properties; the exploration projects have significant volumes of trench, channel and drill data calculation completed from Soviet exploration. The process facilities in the near production opportunities are also well advanced, the group said
Minco it will arrange for independent consultants to review the portfolio of projects both technically and commercially, prior to negotiating agreements for joint venture or acquisition.
Minco will be continuing to develop our Mexican and Irish properties, it added.
Chief executive Mr Matthew Dorman said: 'This is the first step in our strategic aim to be a major gold producer in the Former Soviet Union and enhance shareholder value by acquiring significant deposits that have low cost operation potential.
"Acquiring these options provides Minco with the opportunity for potential early production whilst allowing for further substantial exploration," he added.