Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has called for the expedited development of the Nokundi-Gwadar road corridor. The initiative seeks to enhance logistics connectivity, thereby unlocking Pakistan’s potential for mineral exports.

According to Press Information Department, during a meeting with the senior leadership of Barrick Mining Corporation, the Minister underlined the strategic necessity of linking Balochistan’s mineral-rich areas with ports through a robust road and rail network. The proposed infrastructure is expected to improve transportation and facilitate mineral exports, which could attract further investment.

Minister Iqbal stated that Pakistan aims to boost its exports to US$100 billion under the National Economic Transformation Plan 2035, with the mining sector playing a pivotal role. He reiterated the government’s dedication to fostering investment and speeding up essential infrastructure projects.

He suggested the formation of a joint working group that includes the Ministry of Planning, NHA, Government of Balochistan, and mining companies to determine technical requirements, feasibility, financing, and implementation strategies. The need for comprehensive topographical and 3D mapping data was also emphasized to expedite the feasibility study of the missing link.

The Barrick Mining Corporation delegation expressed support for the proposed collaboration and discussed the technical requirements and logistics planning necessary for developing the corridor in line with regulatory and approval procedures.