International Coal Ventures (ICVL) has discussed forming alliances with small and medium-sized mining companies to explore the mineral-rich region of Virgina in the US.

ICVL chairman C S Verma met a US delegation, headed up by Virginia’s governor Robert McDonnell, and discussed the possibility of such a joint venture (JV), aimed at ensuring raw material security for the country, reports PTI.

The firm also intends to explore options for Greenfield locations and is in discussion with McDonnel concerning the acquisition of coking coal assets and companies in the US.