Exhibit 15.1



April 18, 2001



Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc.
1615 Poydras St.
New Orleans, LA  70112


Gentlemen,

We are aware that Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc. has
incorporated by reference in its Registration Statements (File
Nos. 33-63271, 33-63269, 33-63267, 333-85803 and 333-31584) its
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2001, which includes
our report dated April 18, 2001 covering the unaudited interim
financial information contained therein.  Pursuant to Regulation
C of the Securities Act of 1933 (the Act), this report is not
considered a part of the registration statements prepared or
certified by our firm or a report prepared or certified by our
firm within the meaning of Sections 7 and 11 of the Act.


Very truly yours,


/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
Arthur Andersen LLP