CoTec Holdings Corp. (TSXV: CTH) (OTCQX: CTHCF) and Battery Mineral Resources Corp. (TSXV: BMR) (OTCQB: BTRMF) have signed a non-binding framework agreement to pursue a joint venture aimed at expanding copper production at Battery Mineral Resources' Punitaqui mining district in Chile, according to a press release from the companies.

The proposed Strategic Economic Joint Venture would apply CoTec's processing technologies to lower-grade sulphide mineralization and tailings at Punitaqui. Battery Mineral Resources would retain full ownership and economic benefit of its existing operations, while both companies would each hold a 50% economic interest in any incremental production generated through CoTec's technology applications and qualifying new development opportunities.

CoTec is expected to bear third-party costs associated with an initial assessment and testing program, which will include metallurgical testing and preliminary technical and economic evaluations of tailings recovery, lower-grade mineralization, and potential new copper production streams.

The framework agreement contains binding provisions only on exclusivity, confidentiality, and related customary matters. The parties intend to negotiate definitive agreements following the completion of technical, metallurgical, and economic evaluations.

Julian Treger, Chief Executive Officer of CoTec, said the partnership "reflects CoTec's strategy of creating value from existing assets through technology, project development expertise and disciplined capital allocation."

Lazaros Nikeas, Chief Executive Officer of Battery Mineral Resources, said CoTec "brings a differentiated combination of technology expertise, project development capability and access to capital."

Battery Mineral Resources operates the Punitaqui Mining Complex, a copper, gold, and silver-producing operation in the Coquimbo region of Chile.