The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday, Jan. 17, edition that First Quantum Minerals is mulling several merger and acquisition options as it attempts to stem the financial damage caused by the closing of its giant Panama copper mine. The Globe's Niall McGee writes that First Quantum said it is considering the sale of some of its smaller operations, as well as potentially selling interests in its large mines. First Quantum has already been approached by at least one major mining company interested in pouncing as its stock flounders. Barrick Gold contacted First Quantum with an expression of interest in acquiring the company last year. Barrick has made no secret of its desire to expand its copper production. It is already planning on building a major new copper mine in Pakistan. A range of gold miners, including Agnico Eagle Mines, are broadening their exposure beyond precious metals as the world increasingly turns to critical minerals, such as copper, for low-carbon energy sources. As of Sept. 30, First Quantum owed lenders $6.8-billion (U.S.), and much of that was supposed to be paid off from cash flows from Cobre Panama. As a consequence, First Quantum announced Monday that it is eliminating its dividend.