PM Shehbaz says Reko Diq project will prove to be a game changer for the development of Balochistan & the region

ISLAMABAD, March 22 (SABAH): Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has said Reko Diq project will 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 on Friday, PM Shehbaz Sharif 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.

PM 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. 

Meanwhile Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated his determination to provide all facilities to the youth of Balochistan.

Talking to a delegation of National Party headed by former chief minister Balochistan Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch in Islamabad on Friday, he said it is the responsibility of the State to provide livelihood and education opportunities for Baloch youth.

Discussion was held regarding law and order situation in Balochistan and the problems of the province’s youth. The delegation felicitated Shehbaz Sharif on assuming the office of Prime Minister.