Yes, I spoke to him. He used to use the word shortly for the execution of the agreement now he says they are waiting for venezuela to turn their words into actions before any documents are executed. Those actions would be one of two things.

1. By formerly and in writing allowing the transfer of the MOC to the joint venture

2. By issuing the permit to the joint venture.

Neither party will go forward without one or both of these events taking place. Crystallex will not because it may effect their future arbitration rights. China will not because they want to make sure the deal will get done.

He adds both Crystallex and China are still very much partners and both are trying independantly and together to obtain action from VZ.

The meeting with VZ have been positive and more are scheduled, but VZ has not foramalized there discussions which is what we are waiting for now.

Again, as we have been for years we are in a VZ holding pattern. He would not giving any clue on timing of vz action. The arbitration must be filed in April of next year.