PM Shehbaz says Reko Diq-type projects will create jobs, growth for Balochistan

Barrick delegation expresses interest in mineral processing investment in Karachi and Gwadar; PM says Reko Diq’s success will set benchmark for future investment
ISLAMABAD, Nov 13, 2026 — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Friday that large projects such as Reko Diq will open new opportunities for jobs, skills and economic growth for the people of Balochistan. He made the remarks while meeting a delegation from Barrick Mining Corporation led by its chairman, John Thornton.
The prime minister welcomed Barrick’s participation in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum and described Reko Diq as a milestone for investment in the country’s minerals sector. He said its success would set a benchmark for future mining investment in Pakistan.
Sharif said the government’s priorities include giving Balochistan’s people a direct share in the benefits of mineral projects and creating jobs and skills training for local youth. He added that the government was building an enabling environment for the sector through trade, investment, infrastructure and modern technology.
The Barrick delegation called the holding of the minerals conference an important step toward mineral development in Pakistan. It also expressed strong interest in investing in mineral processing industries in Karachi and Gwadar.
The two sides also discussed the policy, regulatory and infrastructure framework suited to the minerals sector. Sharif said Pakistan wished to draw on Barrick’s expertise and experience for developing the sector beyond Reko Diq.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb and Ali Pervaiz Malik, special assistants Tariq Fatemi and Lt Gen (retd) Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, and senior officials attended the meeting.