OREANDA-NEWS. December 16, 2010. In connection with a number of publications in Russian media covering Australian projects of MMC Norilsk Nickel (the Company), we would like to state the following:

MMC Norilsk Nickel actually owns Honeymoon Well project in Australia. The project is one of the integral parts of the Company’s asset development program in this country. Honeymoon Well is considered for both the independent implementation and as a potential resource base for Cawse enterprise, which the Company plans to launch after completion of the feasibility study for the project. Currently the Company is not negotiating joint development of Honeymoon Well with BHP Billiton.

Furthermore, MMC Norilsk Nickel has a joint venture with BHP Billiton – the Albion Downs project –part of the Company’s exploration program in Australia. The results of the currently held exploration works will allow evaluating prospects of the future development of this deposit.