Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has highlighted the Reko Diq project as a catalyst for economic development in Pakistan and a significant milestone in strengthening Pakistan-Canada relations. The remarks were made during a meeting with Canada’s newly appointed High Commissioner, Ambassador Tarik Ali Khan, at the Prime Minister’s Office, according to an official press release.
The Reko Diq project, located in Balochistan, represents one of the largest undeveloped copper and gold deposits in the world. It is structured as a joint venture between Canada’s Barrick Gold, holding a 50 percent stake, and Pakistani stakeholders, who collectively hold the remaining 50 percent. The project is expected to begin production by 2028, promising substantial economic benefits and investment opportunities for Pakistan’s mining and industrial sectors.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed confidence that Ambassador Khan’s tenure would further strengthen the longstanding and friendly relations between the two nations. He emphasized that mining and mineral exploration are critical areas of mutual interest and can serve as a foundation for deeper economic collaboration.
“The Reko Diq project is poised to be a success story of Pakistan-Canada economic cooperation and a harbinger of development across the country,” the Prime Minister said. He noted that the project would not only generate jobs and revenue but also promote technological transfer and skill development within Pakistan’s mining industry.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the significant role of the Pakistani diaspora in Canada, describing it as a vital bridge facilitating bilateral cooperation. “The contributions of our diaspora continue to strengthen cultural and economic ties, supporting trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges between Pakistan and Canada,” he said.
Ambassador Tarik Ali expressed optimism about the success of the Reko Diq project and reaffirmed his commitment to further enhancing Pakistan-Canada relations. He highlighted potential areas of cooperation including agriculture, energy, trade, investment, technology, and education, signaling a broad agenda for bilateral engagement.
Both leaders agreed that stronger economic cooperation could unlock new opportunities for investment, sustainable growth, and development in Pakistan. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of transparent governance, regulatory clarity, and collaborative frameworks to ensure that foreign investments, such as Reko Diq, deliver maximum benefits to the local economy.
The meeting also highlighted ongoing efforts to diversify economic engagement beyond mining, including expanding trade relations, fostering technological partnerships, and strengthening educational and cultural exchanges. These initiatives aim to create a holistic framework for sustainable economic growth and mutually beneficial relations between Pakistan and Canada.
With Barrick Gold’s leadership in the Reko Diq venture, coupled with strong bilateral commitment, the project is positioned to serve as a landmark example of international cooperation driving domestic development. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism that the Reko Diq project would set a precedent for future collaborations in mining and other sectors, enhancing Pakistan’s investment climate and global economic standing.
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