Islamabad, Barrick Gold Corporation’s President and Chief Executive, Mark Bristow, has announced the Reko Diq gold and copper project as a major economic game-changer for Balochistan, with an estimated investment of 10 billion dollars over the next eight to nine years. The project is expected to significantly transform the region’s economy.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Bristow, in an interview with a private news channel, emphasized the substantial impact the Reko Diq project will have on local employment and community development. Already, the project has created 200 jobs, with plans to increase this number to 1,000 by the end of the year. The goal is to eventually provide employment for 10,000 people at the peak of mining operations.

Bristow also highlighted the crucial role of continuous engagement with local communities. He underscored the importance of involving community members in guiding the decisions and actions of investors. He reiterated Barrick Gold Corporation’s commitment to not only invest in the project but also in the communities themselves. This includes preparing local people to participate directly in and benefit from the Reko Diq project.

The Reko Diq initiative, with its substantial investment and employment opportunities, is poised to bring a significant economic boost to Balochistan, potentially changing the economic landscape of the region.