The state had requested the adjournment until June 2, Judge Mahamadou Tipou Keita said.

Mali's government has asked the local court to appoint a provisional administrator to take over Barrick's mine, which it suspended in January over the alleged nonpayment of taxes. Barrick has denied those charges.

The government has renegotiated agreements with other multinational miners under a new mining law. Barrick is the only one that has not agreed to Mali's terms, resulting in the arrest of its employees, asset seizures, and suspension of its operations.

--Reuters--