bob hawke rio tinto crazy theory

Just wondering if anyone knows what connection Bob Hawke has had with Rio Tinto over the years?

This may be a bit crazy but I wonder if ORD would ever entertain the idea of partnering with Rio Tinto in Laos?

Rio are sniffing all round this area and 2 billion tonnes is definitely in the big boys leaugue. Crazy theory but not totally out of the question.

This is not raised in response to todays spike but is just a thought based on the longer term.

Would this kind of thing be possible? I dont know if JV's really happen in mining. I know they happen all the time in oil and gas.