SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 8-K
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): April 9, 1997
FREEPORT-McMoRan COPPER & GOLD INC.
Delaware 1-9916 74-2480931
(State or other (Commission (IRS Employer
jurisdiction of File Number) Identification
incorporation or Number)
organization)
1615 Poydras Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70112
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (504) 582-4000
Item 5. Other Events.
The following news release was issued by Freeport-McMoRan Copper &
Gold Inc. on April 9, 1997:
Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc. (FCX) and Freeport-McMoRan Inc.
(FTX) announced today that the U.S. District Court has ruled in favor
of FCX's and FTX's motions to dismiss the $6 billion lawsuit filed
against them. This ruling confirms that the lawsuit, filed by a New
Orleans attorney on behalf of Tom Beanal, an Indonesian citizen, had
no basis in law.
On March 12, 1997, a Louisiana state court dismissed an
identical lawsuit filed on behalf of Yosefa Alomang, also an
Indonesian citizen. The state lawsuit was filed by the same attorney
and contained the same baseless allegations as the dismissed federal
lawsuit.
FCX intends to continue its work with the local people and the
Government of Indonesia to implement the Government's Integrated
Timika Development Plan to meet the needs of the local people in Irian
Jaya. FCX remains committed to working with all groups and parties
for the benefit of the indigenous people through educational, health
care, job creation and job training programs and infrastructure
enhancement projects.
FCX is engaged in mineral exploration and development, mining and
milling of copper, gold and silver in Irian Jaya, Indonesia and the
smelting and refining of copper concentrates in Spain. FCX is also
involved in a joint venture to construct and operate a
smelter/refinery in Indonesia.
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
FREEPORT-McMoRan COPPER & GOLD INC.
By: /s/ Michael A. Weaver
----------------------------------
Michael A. Weaver
Controller - Financial Reporting
(authorized signatory and
Principal Accounting Officer)
Date: April 10, 1997
