A significant breakthrough appears possible in the ongoing dispute between Barrick Gold Corporation and Mali’s government as both parties return to the negotiating table, facilitated by the National Workers Union of Mali. The conflict over revenue distribution from the Loulo-Gounkoto mine, one of the world’s largest gold operations, has resulted in severe consequences including the seizure of gold stockpiles by Mali’s government and an arrest warrant issued for Barrick’s CEO Mark Bristow. While Mali’s military junta hasn’t explicitly stated their demands, Barrick has put forward a substantial $370 million settlement offer to resolve the standoff. This development marks a potential turning point in a dispute that has significantly impacted operations at a crucial mining facility and strained relations between the world’s second-largest gold producer and the West African nation.