Reko Diq project will prove to be game changer: PM

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Reko Diq project would 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 the progress on Reko Diq project, the delegation informed the Prime Minister that its feasibility would be completed by the end of this year. It was told that local and Balochistan domicile holders are being given priority in jobs on Reko Diq project.

It was said that Barrick Gold, under the corporate social responsibility, has established three schools near the Reko Diq. So far, one hundred people, including women, have been imparted vocational and technical training by Barrick Gold.