ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that the success of the Reko Diq project will set an example for mineral investment in Pakistan, and directly involving the people of Balochistan in the fruits of mineral projects is one of the priorities of the government.
A delegation led by Barrack Mining Corporation Chairman John Thornton called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
The visiting delegation termed the holding of the Mineral Conference by the Prime Minister and the Government of Pakistan as an important step towards mineral development in Pakistan. The delegation expressed deep interest in investing in the establishment of mineral processing industries in Karachi and Gwadar.
During the meeting with John Thornton, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said that Balochistan is rich in natural resources and mineral wealth and by utilizing these resources effectively, the development of the province, the prosperity of the people and employment opportunities can be increased.
He said that the government’s priorities include directly involving the people of Balochistan in the fruits of mineral projects, creating employment and skill opportunities for local youth, and ensuring the development of surrounding populations.
The Prime Minister, while welcoming the participation of Barrick Mining Corporation in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, said that the Reko Diq project is an important milestone in investment in Pakistan’s mineral sector, the success of which will also serve as an example for future projects.
The Prime Minister said that the Reko Diq project is an important milestone in investment in Pakistan’s mineral sector and is of key importance for the country’s economic future. The success of the Reko Diq project will set an ideal standard for future mineral investment in Pakistan. The Government of Pakistan is creating a conducive environment based on trade, investment, infrastructure, and modern technology for the development of the mineral sector.
The meeting also discussed the appropriate policy, regulatory, and infrastructure system for the mineral sector in Pakistan. The Prime Minister expressed his desire to utilize the expertise and experience of the Barracks for the development of Pakistan’s mineral sector beyond Reko Diq.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Federal Ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb, Ali Pervaiz Malik, Special Assistants Tariq Fatemi, Lieutenant General (retd) Muhammad Zafar Iqbal and senior officials concerned.