BHP or RIO arnt in the business of doing rival companies...

BHP or RIO arnt in the business of doing rival companies favours, they need to be given a little xtra motivation to do deals beneficial to both themselves AND hopefuls such as UMC.To announce something along the lines as"we are in discussions with Chinese interests re a joint venture on the Railway Resource.This may take the form of a large capital input to cover all costs involved in progressing Railway to being a 10 million ton a year producer including infrastructure for mining and transport of the ore to China from mine gate to steelworks.It is envisiaged that the profit will be shared between the parties on a 50/50 basis"

that should get their attention and hasten them to a seat at the table!

regards