They are proceeding with phase 1 without them because codelco gave up/had issues with due diligence during covid.
https://themarketherald.com.au/lithium-power-international-asxlpi-changes-up-plans-for-chilean-project-2020-12-10/
Long term the goal seems to be working with codelco. Having a functioning operation puts LPI in the driving seat. From the article 2 days ago:Cristóbal García Huidobro,general manager of Minera Salar Blanco, explained thatconsidering that any new process that starts now will take at least 10 years to materialize, it is of great value that there is a company like Mineral Salar Blanco that is ready to start producing.
“We are convinced that the way to advance in the creation of value in the industry associated with lithium and to strengthen a State policy in relation to lithium is through a solid public-private alliance.Our country cannot be late for the lithium race… the time for lithium is now!”, emphasized the executive.
