Shehbaz Sharif seeks Barrick Mining's expertise for mineral sector
Barrick's delegation expressed interest in mineral processing industries in Karachi and Gwadar, while the prime minister stressed local jobs from the Reko Diq project.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sought the expertise of Barrick Mining Corporation for the development of Pakistan's mineral sector when he met a delegation led by the company's chairman, John Thornton, in Islamabad on Friday, the state broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported.
The prime minister said Pakistan has rich natural resources and mineral wealth, and that using them for the development of Balochistan is a top priority for the government.
He said the government wants people in Balochistan to benefit directly from mineral projects, with jobs and skills training for local youth and development of nearby communities.
Shehbaz Sharif described the Reko Diq project as an important milestone for investment in the mineral sector and a key project for the country's economic future, saying its successful implementation would set a benchmark for future mineral investments.
He said Pakistan is committed to using its mineral resources and creating opportunities for international investment, adding that the government is building an enabling environment through trade, investment, infrastructure and modern technology.
The prime minister also expressed the desire to benefit from Barrick's expertise and experience beyond the Reko Diq project, the report said.
The meeting discussed policy, regulatory and infrastructure frameworks needed for the mineral sector's development.
The Barrick delegation welcomed the government's plan to organize the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, calling it an important step for the sector, and expressed keen interest in investing in mineral processing industries in Karachi and Gwadar.
Reko Diq is a large copper and gold project in Balochistan, in which Barrick Mining Corporation is involved.
