Reko Diq project will prove to be game changer: PM

ISLAMABAD, (NNI): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said Reko Diq project will prove to be a game changer for the development of Balochistan and the region. Talking to a delegation of Barrick Gold-led by its Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow in Islamabad today, he said the project will usher in a new era of development of the province and prosperity of the people.

The Prime Minister said plans will be chalked out regarding communication infrastructure, especially railway lines to take full advantage of the mineral potential of Balochistan.

He also encouraged the Barrick Gold to invest in other projects of minerals in Balochistan. He proposed a joint venture between the government and the Barrick Gold for the establishment of a Technical University in Chaghai.

Shehbaz Sharif said the government is taking all possible measures, including projects for a better roads and communication infrastructure, to facilitate investors.

Briefing on the progress of Reko Diq project, the Barrick Gold delegation informed the meeting that the Reko Diq project feasibility would be completed by end of current year.

The prime minister was informed that preference was being given to local and Balochistan domiciled persons to work on Reko Diq project.

Barrick Gold said it had set up three schools near Reko Diq under Corporate Social Responsibility while so far, the company had also imparted technical training to 100 people including women. Petroleum Minister Musadik Malik, Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazir Tarar, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Muhammad Jehanzeb and relevant senior government officials participated in the meeting.