The land title claims by two bauxite mining companies in Rennel and Bellona Province in Solomon Islands have been declared legal by the attorney general.
Bintan Company Ltd and Asia Pacific Investment Development have been embroiled in complicated battles for land and mining rights which have resulted in the sackings of at least one minister and several staff from the Ministry of Mines.
James Apaniai's declaration comes after the Renbell provincial government and the West Rennell council of chiefs and landowners questioned the validity of both companies land title claims.
Mr Apaniai says both companies have legally acquired the titles for their respective holdings.
