Chapter 338: The Target of Criticism
Everyone followed the direction Li Tang was pointing toward, roughly due north, where they could see distant mountain ranges rising and falling, the peaks capped with snow and the lower slopes lush with greenery.
But what they were looking at was just a small part of the Rocky Mountains. Human vision is limited; when gazing into the distance, things naturally become blurry, making it difficult to discern details.
"What's over there?" Hu Zhenchi had tagged along mostly out of curiosity, carefully observing Li Tang's every action. Following Niu Fu's instructions, they were trying to secretly learn Li Tang's exploration skills—even picking up a tiny fraction of his expertise would be immensely valuable.
Up until now, Hu hadn't noticed Li Tang demonstrate any particularly remarkable insight or actions. Now that Li Tang finally expressed an opinion, he listened attentively, hoping for some profound revelation.
But looking north, he saw nothing special.
Li Tang explained, "Across the North American continent, the Rocky Mountains run north-to-south, significantly influencing the climate and leaving behind abundant resources for future generations. Along this mountain range, extending over a thousand kilometers, lies a continuous coal-bearing belt."
Li Tang looked at Liu Naishun and asked, "Am I correct?"
"Yes." Liu Naishun was genuinely surprised by Li Tang's extensive knowledge.
Previously, Liu had heard that Li Tang possessed deep expertise regarding the world's major copper deposits but hadn't expected him to also be knowledgeable about Canada's coal-forming belt.
"All along the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains, stretching northward for about a thousand kilometers, you can see many exposed coal seams from the Gates and Gething formations. However, these seams are severely weathered and eroded in some areas and thinning or even disappearing in others. Our exploration seeks regions where coal seams remain relatively intact."
"Within such a large area, there must be regions overlooked by previous explorations and large-scale or even world-class coal deposits still waiting to be discovered!" Li Tang spoke confidently.
"The terrain here is complex, and in previous years, the coal business wasn't profitable. Although Canada has abundant coal reserves, it historically hasn't been a major coal-producing nation. Local exploration companies also lacked enthusiasm for coal development, so this area indeed holds significant exploration potential." Liu Naishun looked toward the direction Li Tang had indicated earlier, adding, "Our exploration team has already started preliminary work from the Gaisen coal mine area, moving northward. To be frank, we've identified several promising targets."
"Could you show me these promising exploration targets you've identified?" Li Tang asked.
"Certainly."
Liu Naishun quickly had his assistant bring out a map to show Li Tang, explaining as he pointed to various locations: "In these northern areas, we've found several exposed coal seams. However, as with here, the seams at the surface are heavily weathered and eroded, and we haven't found continuous intact coal layers at the surface. Nevertheless, we remain optimistic about deeper underground layers, which might be well-preserved."
Li Tang carefully studied the map, nodding thoughtfully.
"Especially this region here—we speculate the Gates coal seam might still be intact underground!" Liu pointed toward an area not far from Gaisen coal mine.
Previously, they had already discussed the coal at the Gaisen site, where the reserves of approximately 300 million tons primarily belonged to the Gething Formation. The more substantial Gates Formation, being closer to the surface, had largely eroded away over countless years of weathering.
If this newly identified region still contained well-preserved Gates coal seams underground, the total coal reserves would undoubtedly be far greater, potentially surpassing the Gaisen area significantly.
Li Tang nodded again, casually asking, "On the map, there seems to be a river flowing through this area. What's the river called?"
"Murray River," Liu Naishun quickly responded.
The Rocky Mountains stretched along the western edge of North America, intercepting warm ocean air from the west. Moisture condensed into ice and snow on the peaks, and during warmer seasons, melted snow and ice formed numerous streams flowing eastward, nourishing vast lands downstream.
Such rivers and streams were countless across this continent, each with a unique name, making even small rivers like the Murray River distinctive.
Upon hearing the river's name, Li Tang immediately confirmed his suspicion.
Yes, this was exactly what he had come looking for!
He'd found it!
"Have you already secured mining rights for this Murray River area?" Li Tang asked seemingly casually.
In Canada, mining-right regulations differed significantly from China's. However, generally speaking, acquiring and managing mineral rights here was relatively more straightforward.
"Not yet; we're still observing the situation." Liu Naishun looked somewhat embarrassed, "We don't have sufficient funds to simultaneously initiate two extensive exploration projects. The Murray River area is further north and more remote from towns, meaning exploration costs would be higher. And exploration in Canada, especially labor costs, is exceptionally expensive."
"You're right," Li Tang acknowledged.
"We acquired the Gaisen coal mine rights only last year, and having already proven reserves of 300 million tons of high-quality coal, naturally, our current priority remains here," Liu pointed beneath his feet.
"I understand."
Li Tang pondered for a moment before asking, "If we sent exploration teams from China to conduct work here, could we significantly reduce the costs?"
"Yes, absolutely," Liu agreed enthusiastically. "Canada doesn't restrict foreign workers from coming here, although they typically require a language proficiency test to ensure better communication and adherence to local laws."
"Technicians are generally highly educated and have strong learning abilities. Language barriers shouldn't pose a significant issue, and even if they do, a short training period before deployment should suffice," Li Tang suggested pragmatically.
"What exactly do you have in mind?" Liu Naishun had initially hoped Li Tang and Xie Jiashu would directly invest in the proven Gaisen coal mine, thereby helping him achieve profitability sooner. But it seemed Li Tang wasn't content with the three hundred million tons they had.
"These northern potential exploration areas you've identified—apply for the mining rights and invest in extensive exploration!" Li Tang decisively announced his plan.
While Liu Naishun was glad to have someone willing to invest, he couldn't help feeling puzzled: "Are you genuinely not interested in the proven Gaisen coal mine?"
"Three hundred million tons is indeed significant, but still insufficient." Li Tang's true thought wasn't contempt for the size of the Gaisen mine. Instead, he recognized that developing such a mine would require substantial capital, perhaps exceeding his current available resources. Behind him, Shenxia Group was indeed powerful, but identifying additional reserves would ultimately achieve economies of scale and lower costs.
"Alright, good," Liu agreed. Clearly, Li Tang was solely interested in discovering even bigger deposits; Liu had no reason to argue.
"How much capital do you estimate is required for exploration of these northern areas?" Li Tang inquired directly.
"Fifty million U.S. dollars," Liu quickly responded with a concrete figure. "This investment should suffice for sustained exploration activities if we confirm the presence of preserved coal layers underground."
"Fine. I'll invest," Li Tang declared casually.
"Huh?" Liu Naishun was momentarily stunned. Was Li Tang truly deciding this quickly?
Initially, Liu had thought Li Tang had merely come sightseeing with his girlfriend. Now, after taking just one look deep into the Rockies, Li Tang casually committed to investing $50 million.
This wasn't small money—it was a hefty sum in U.S. dollars!
Li Tang turned toward Xie Jiashu, asking, "Is Shenxia Group interested in joining this coal exploration investment?"
"Just like that?" Xie Jiashu felt equally astonished. Obviously, such an enormous investment would need approval from the highest levels of Shenxia Group, possibly even from the board of directors.
"Having seen the Gaisen coal mine and heard Liu's insightful analysis, I genuinely believe there's significant exploration potential here." Li Tang's decision seemed remarkably effortless. To put it poetically, he made such heavyweight decisions appear trivial; more crudely, he was simply obscenely wealthy—doing whatever he pleased.
Fifty million U.S. dollars, committed just like that.
If no coal was found, this money would vanish into wilderness exploration.
"If you decide to invest, Shenxia Group will surely follow, but I must first report back to President Li," Xie Jiashu replied, his hands trembling slightly.
"No problem," Li Tang replied patiently, then addressed Liu Naishun, emphasizing the urgency of formalizing their cooperation. "For this exploration project, you're indispensable. Your De Yi Mining Group identified these areas, and you should definitely participate."
"Yes," Liu agreed promptly. "How would you like to proceed?"
"We'll establish a new joint-venture company, apply for the exploration rights, and inject the entire $50 million into it." Li Tang quickly outlined a straightforward arrangement: "I'll invest $30 million for a 50% stake, Shenxia Group invests $15 million for 25%, and De Yi Mining invests $5 million for 25%, reflecting your technical contribution and local project management."
Liu thought this was generous but felt pressure raising $5 million quickly. "Could I postpone my payment slightly?"
"Certainly," Li Tang agreed amicably. "If necessary, I can lend you the money."
With such an accommodating offer, Liu had no reason to refuse. Nodding enthusiastically, he responded, "I look forward to cooperating!"
"No phone signal here. I'll report immediately upon returning to Vancouver," Xie noted carefully.
"I believe President Li will agree," Li Tang smiled confidently.
They soon returned to Vancouver, settling comfortably into the city.
Li Tang called Alice, who promptly dispatched Catherine to handle the coal exploration investment matters, swiftly resolving all related issues.
The subsequent steps followed naturally—applying for mineral rights, drafting the exploration plan, and so forth. With the local De Yi Mining Group assisting, the entire process progressed smoothly.
To save costs and prepare for potential underground mining, Shenxia Group directly dispatched a technical team to participate in the exploration phase. Xie Jiashu stayed behind in Vancouver, working closely with Liu Naishun to oversee local operations.
Li Tang, along with He Runqi and Li Xinqi, spent an extended period enjoying themselves in Vancouver before returning to Toronto. Their visit to Canada wasn't solely focused on resolving coal-related issues. Having had enough leisure and having casually settled the coal mining matter, Li Tang's plans still included another significant matter, prompting him to undertake yet another journey.
Elvin, the Financial Post journalist closely trailing Li Tang, found himself increasingly confused. After finally discovering the hotel where Li Tang was staying and keeping watch for several days, he learned that Li Tang and his group had ventured deep into the Rocky Mountains. Elated by this discovery, he became convinced Li Tang's visit to Canada had an extraordinary purpose beyond mere sightseeing.
Undoubtedly, the mysterious man from the East was plotting an unknown investment project. Without question, Li Tang must have made a new discovery!
Elvin was determined not to miss this opportunity, intending to follow Li Tang throughout, capturing footage of his activities and uncovering the inside story behind his investment project. If he could film Li Tang's entire exploration process—from inception to the discovery of new mineral deposits—it would undoubtedly create immense global interest, considering the public's fascination with the enigmatic billionaire. Such a documentary could even evolve into a series, with sequels to follow, making it an excellent opportunity for Elvin to gain lasting fame.
Following scant leads, he traveled deep into the Rockies to discreetly visit the coal exploration site. Unfortunately, when he finally tracked Li Tang down, he discovered Li Tang had already returned to Vancouver. Initially, he thought Li Tang had abandoned the coal project since their stay was short-lived. However, further investigation revealed that Li Tang not only valued the coal deposits but had partnered with a local mining company to establish the Murray River Coal Company, investing fifty million U.S. dollars.
Elvin hurried back to Vancouver in Li Tang's footsteps, only to find Li Tang had already departed once again. Despite the constant chase, he hadn't come away empty-handed. Using information gathered thus far, Elvin composed an article: "Li Tang Ventures into Rocky Mountains, Investing $50 Million to Establish Coal Mining Company!"
Although the article didn't appear on the front page, it created quite a stir, especially within Canada's mining industry, sparking considerable debate.
Canada was home to the world's most prosperous mining exploration market, with abundant capital and robust management systems. Many people were employed in this field, each harboring dreams of discovering world-class mineral deposits and becoming top-tier billionaires, just like Li Tang.
Unquestionably, Li Tang had become their idol, a benchmark to pursue. With news of Li Tang's arrival in Canada, many awaited anxiously, eager to see what kind of mineral project he would undertake and where.
Being the first to break new ground didn't necessarily guarantee the most lucrative results. In Canada's north, once someone had discovered diamond mines, hundreds of other exploration companies followed, discovering even larger deposits and earning immense wealth, becoming world-class mining magnates.
Pioneering exploration and uncovering previously unknown deposits naturally deserved respect. However, when it came to making money, following in the footsteps of proven discoveries was undoubtedly more targeted and efficient.
They had already decided that wherever Li Tang explored, whatever minerals he sought, they would promptly follow suit. Finally, after eager anticipation, the media disclosed the awaited news:
Li Tang had entered the Rocky Mountains to begin coal exploration.
Coal?
This posed somewhat of a dilemma. Most investors preferred diamonds, gold, or minerals like nickel—commodities already abundantly produced in Canada—rather than coal.
Frando, a well-known and successful figure in Canada's early-stage exploration sector, had also closely monitored Li Tang's movements. After seeing the news, he even agreed to a TV interview.
Television programs often intentionally staged debates by inviting opposing sides to present differing views. When Frando saw Layton, the New Democratic Party leader, he knew a heated debate was inevitable. Having watched Layton's prior argument with Gintley on television, Frando understood Layton to be stubborn and prejudiced.
"I've met Li Tang and even arranged with him to jointly undertake copper exploration projects in Africa," Frando openly declared in response to the host's questions. He took pride in knowing and potentially collaborating with Li Tang. "In the field of mineral exploration, Li Tang is practically an untouchable deity! There's no doubt the hottest topic in 21st-century mining is porphyry copper-gold deposits. Li Tang recognized this early and thoroughly understands global porphyry copper belts and their formation theories, leading him to discoveries like the Talego copper-gold mine, the Pebble Project, and major Chinese deposits like Qinglong and Qulong copper mines!"
"Clearly, he hasn't had any successes in our country," Layton challenged directly. "Recently, everyone has been excitedly speculating about what giant deposit he might find here and the storms his discoveries might trigger. Frankly, the reaction has been exaggerated. He's just a man from China. Claims about his unparalleled exploration expertise and divine investment instincts are overly sensational!"
"You're a politician, not a mining industry expert; you simply don't comprehend how extraordinary that Chinese man is in our field!" Frando immediately countered. "I've made some achievements myself, some I'm proud of, but compared to Li Tang, I'm worthless—literally, I'm garbage."
"You've been deceived! The Chinese are cunning and deceptive, and I know this well!" Layton remained entrenched in his longstanding biases against China. It was his political stance and the foundation of his rhetoric. "All these accomplishments, all this glamour—it's nothing more than a fabricated façade created by Li Tang and his deceptive team. The whole world has been fooled! Open your eyes—such perfection simply doesn't exist!"
Layton loudly proclaimed his argument, his followers cheering as if he'd exposed Li Tang's supposed hidden ugliness.
Frando was furious, eager to rebut Layton's baseless accusations, recognizing Layton's argument lacked any credible evidence. But he swallowed his words, realizing politicians like Layton were adept at preaching baseless theories until even they themselves believed them.
For Layton, belittling Li Tang wasn't the goal—merely a tactic. His true targets were China and Chinese enterprises, always objects of criticism. This was their job, their self-righteous "truth." They stood at the pinnacle, judging others from on high.
Frando suddenly laughed, shaking his head, and remarked lightly, "Perhaps you're right." He had no interest in arguing further with Layton—it was pointless. Frando was a businessman and a mining professional, fundamentally differing from career politicians like Layton. Such differences made consensus impossible.
"You agree with Layton, considering Li Tang a fraud?" the host asked disappointedly. He'd hoped for fiery exchanges, yet Frando had abruptly withdrawn.
"Who knows?" Frando shrugged indifferently. "If a beautifully disguised fraud can create a world-famous enterprise like Lianying Mining, then he's quite an extraordinary fraud indeed! Let me ask everyone here: wouldn't you want to be such a fraud?"
The audience burst into laughter, clearly seeing Layton's views as absurd.
"You're certain Lianying Mining is genuinely his company?" Layton stubbornly continued, "Most famous Chinese companies are state-owned, backed by unseen hands! Everyone should beware; this isn't just about business!"
Frando ignored him.
The host, sensing Frando's connection with Li Tang, continued probing: "According to reports, Li Tang invested $50 million in coal exploration in the eastern Rockies. What's your opinion on this? Would you follow his lead?"
"Perhaps," Frando admitted, though he wasn't very knowledgeable about coal.
"You should be cautious, or you'll get dragged down!" Layton sneered.
"Will you cooperate with Li Tang?" the host persisted.
"Absolutely!" Frando affirmed clearly, not engaging further with Layton but firmly declaring his stance.
After the interview, Frando promptly called Li Tang.
"Li, why didn't you inform me when you arrived in Canada?"
Li Tang was preparing to fly north to the frigid Arctic region for both leisure (experiencing authentic ice and snow, skiing) and business purposes. Receiving Frando's call was somewhat unexpected.
"I've been busy. I thought you were handling projects in Africa. Are you back home now?" Li Tang, aware Frando was Canadian, considered partnering with him earlier since Frando had deeper expertise regarding Canada's mining regulations and capital markets than Liu Naishun.
"I heard you're investing here—need any help?" Frando offered directly.
Li Tang considered the potential insights Frando could provide. "Do you have time? I'm in Toronto. Let's have coffee."
"Absolutely—I know exactly where the best coffee is!"
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