NDM has a non disclosure agreement with all majors involved in the final stage negotiations. Of course NDM knows exactly who these majors are. Ron spoke to the process Tom and he went through with the majors to reach consensus on the final mine plan which is needed prior to finalizing the negotiations and permit applications.
The author of the article meant NDM gave no indication of who the partner(s) are. That information will be withheld until the deal is announced.