Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan and Barrick Gold Corporation have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the multi-billion-dollar Reko Diq copper and gold mining project, as both sides reviewed progress and future plans during a high-level meeting in Islamabad.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik met Barrick Gold Chairman John L. Thornton to discuss ongoing development work, stakeholder coordination and implementation milestones linked to the strategic mining venture.
During the meeting, the petroleum minister described Reko Diq as a flagship project for Pakistan’s economy, saying it has the potential to attract major foreign investment, boost exports and create employment opportunities, particularly in Balochistan.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting large-scale mining and energy projects aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s natural resource sector and long-term economic growth.
Barrick Gold Chairman John Thornton appreciated the government’s continued support and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the timely completion of the project. He stressed that close coordination among all stakeholders remained essential for the successful execution of the venture.
The Reko Diq project is considered one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper and gold deposits. Under the ownership structure, Barrick Gold holds a 50 per cent stake, while 25pc is owned by Pakistani state-owned enterprises and the remaining 25pc belongs to the Government of Balochistan.
Officials said the partnership model was designed to ensure both international investment and domestic participation in the project’s development.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to maintain close cooperation and continue efforts to keep the project on track as a key pillar of Pakistan’s mining and investment landscape.
