Just got off the phone and not too much new but here is what was said.

They had a meeting with the Minister of Mines last Monday. He said there are still some differences to work out between the Minister and Correa. He said because they are negotiating along side with some bigger players like Aurelian, Dynasty etc. that they have good access to the president. He wishes the govt. could all get their stories straight but as far as Correa himself he likes what he's hearing from him. He said that Correa met at some point with the Canadian Mining Council and assured them that the Canadian mining companies would be treated fairly. He said the 3 concession rule would effectively put his company out of business and does not think it will be passed as law. The new draft mining law is virtually done and should be out within a couple weeks. He has not seen it.

The last bit of info. is that the Canadian govt. is still involved and the Deputy Minister of Trade and officials will be in Ecuador in 2 weeks.

Hope this helps...........