Putting the tiny tidbits of info together I presume that the ongoing "discussions" has more to do with Teck putting their ducks in a row prior to negotiations. CUU cannot discuss anything probably since everything is in Teck's hands now. There really isn't much to speak about especially since its not CUU's move next.

Based on the last NR/conference call, you see some definite hints of a possible copper acquisition from the CEO, Lindsay.

Also you have some caution regarding burning through their cash too quickly, so that they retain their credit rating.

Therefore, if you need a large copper project to offset losses in your business due to QB(S.America) and Coal then you buy one in a safe jurisdiction ready with a BFS and an EA close to approval later this year. BUT you dont want to burn your cash with a $1.5B buyout. So you speak with some other major's that want to do a deal... which is what Teck has done many times before to derisk the project but still retain control of the project.

Teck could be speaking to the Board of Directors + Keevil and a Major (BHP) now, and with Banks to line up financing for a buyout. On top of that there is the question about CUU2, Teck may like CUU2 to drill up the surrounding lands (which were increased, AGAIN with today's NR). Thus Teck and CUU need to come to another "agreement" to proceed with these lands following a SC buyout. In order to do all this, you need to continue "DISCUSSIONS" not negotiations, even though these "discussions" could be very relevant to negotiations in the near term and therefore the "quiet period".

I believe this is the calm before the storm. I see a buyout in the near term with a major teaming up with Teck to take SC from CUU. CUU2 makes another agreement with Teck to proceed with drilling for a future buyout of remaining land.

SPECULATION from limited info is nerve-racking and exciting.