Guyana union, Rusal launch long-awaited mediation

GEORGETOWN, Guyana （AP） — A Russian-owned bauxite company is meeting with union leaders in Guyana to talk about its de-recognition of a labor union and dismissal of more than 120 workers amid wage disagreements.

Labor Minister Manzoor Nadir is mediating the long-awaited talks between the company and the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union. He said Saturday that meetings will continue early next week.

The South American country had threatened sanctions if Rusal did not agree to binding arbitration.

Nadir has accused Rusal of unilaterally and illegally ending the union agreement.

Rusal is the world's largest producer of alumina and aluminum and has extensive holdings in the Berbice region of the South American country.