Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, said on his Reko Diq site visit that the move to develop the area has sparked a serious spike in the attention from abroad investing in our mineral game. He pointed out that as soon as we start getting the cash flow from this gig, the local government has plans to pour a good chunk of that money back into Chagai’s people’s pockets. It’s a way to ensure the folks living there, who have a big stake in this, get the best slice of the benefit pie when it’s all up and running.
The CEO of Barrick, Mark Bristow, gave the Chief Minister a warm reception. He shined a light on the Reko Diq project marking a significant leap forward in mining for Balochistan. “Reko Diq marks the start of a new chapter in mining around these parts. We’re the folks running this show. We’re all in to make sure it helps the whole region grow,” he further asserted. Unlike other, Barrick does not wait to see money rolling in. The Company has already taken Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. These include improving schools, health services clean drinking water, and teaching people new skills to boost the local towns.
Bristow stressed Barrick’s commitment to making the project a success by beginning construction this year and producing in late 2028. He pointed out, “Reko Diq is on its way to becoming a world-class mine, and we are sure that the special partnership between Barrick, the federal government, and the provincial government will give good stuff to everyone involved.”
Moreover, the Chief Minister praised Reko Diq Mining Company’s focus on the community. He said their motives align with the local government’s plan. The focus is on providing education, healthcare and skills to the local people. During his visit, he also engaged with the folks working on the project. He also praised their solid effort. He had shone a light on how the project is super important for making Balochistan’s economy and society better. While talking to the reports, he reiterated the government’s promise. The goal is to create long term partnerships that benefits the region, he further said.
Lastly, The Chief Minister along with Mark Bristow paid a visit to the Nokkundi Mother and Child Health Center and the Hunar Foundation Training Institute, funded by RDMC. They’re changing the game when it comes to making health services better and teaching folks new skills in the area.
