The government of Pakistan and Barrick Gold Corporation have agreed that the government’s share of the Reko Diq project investment will be paid in Pakistani rupees.
According to Radio Pakistan, the agreement was made today in Islamabad during a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and a group from Barrick Gold Corporation.
Barrick Gold Corporation’s delegation was led by Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow. He updated the Prime Minister on the status of ongoing development work at Reko Diq.
Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister stated that the involvement of multinational firms, including Barrick Gold, in the “Pakistan Mineral Summit” demonstrates the restoration of international investor trust in Pakistan.
He stated that the establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council enabled the Mineral Summit’s success and the restoration of multinational corporations’ faith in Pakistan, such as Barrick Gold.
He stated that the Reko Diq project will be a game changer for the development of Balochistan and the region, ushering in a new age of progress and wealth for the province and its people.
The premier also directed all authorities involved in the project’s implementation to discharge their responsibilities.
Shehbaz Sharif was informed that Reko Diq has formed a Community Development Committee to prioritise viable ideas for the development and prosperity of the people of Balochistan.
It was also stated that local elders who are members of the committee identify projects for the improvement of the local population.
The Prime Minister was informed that the Reko Diq project will provide employment possibilities to talented Balochistan residents and that a large portion of the investment will be used to develop the local area.
