PM backs Balochistan mineral investment

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed the relevant authorities to ensure that local communities, particularly the people of Balochistan, directly benefit from mineral development projects through employment, skills development and improved economic opportunities.

Chairing a meeting with a delegation of Barrick Mining Corporation, led by its Chairman John Thornton, the prime minister emphasized that effectively utilizing Balochistan's natural resources and mineral wealth was essential for the province's development and public prosperity, a Prime Minister's Office news release said.

He said the government's priorities included creating employment and skills development opportunities for local youth, ensuring their participation in the benefits of mineral projects and promoting the development of communities surrounding project sites.

Welcoming Barrick Mining Corporation's participation in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, the prime minister described the Reko Diq project as a major milestone for investment in the country's mineral sector and a project of strategic importance to Pakistan's economic future.

He said the successful implementation of Reko Diq would establish a benchmark for future investment in the country's mining sector and help create new opportunities for international investors.

The prime minister said Pakistan was committed to utilizing its extensive mineral resources and developing an enabling environment for investment through improved trade and investment policies, infrastructure development and modern technology.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday assured Ivanhoe Mines of full government facilitation for investment in Pakistan's mineral sector, particularly in the exploration and development of copper, gold and other critical mineral resources.

During a meeting with Founder and Executive Co-Chairman of Ivanhoe Mines, Robert Friedland, the prime minister said Pakistan was rich in mineral resources and was committed to working with international partners to harness its vast mineral potential, a Prime Minister's Office news release said.

He welcomed Ivanhoe Mines' interest in investing in Pakistan and its cooperation with local partners, saying the government's priority was to provide a conducive environment for investment in the mineral sector.

The prime minister said the recognition of Pakistan as a preferred destination for mineral investment reflected growing confidence among international investors in the country's mineral potential and investment climate.