08:56 AM EDT, 05/09/2024 (MT Newswires) -- Aurion Resources ( AIRRF ) said Thursday that it won't exercise its right of first refusal to acquire B2Gold's ( BTG ) 70% interest in their joint venture in Finland.

As a result, B2Gold ( BTG ) can now sell its 70% stake to Rupert Resources ( RUPRF ) . Aurion said it will continue to own its 30% interest in the joint venture.

"Aurion is keen to minimize shareholder dilution and continue as a partner in the JV company to unlock further value as the area is developing towards a new gold camp," Aurion CEO Matti Talikka said.

Aurion said it continues to consider a range of other strategic alternatives, at both the asset and corporate level.