Reko Diq harbinger of development, stronger Pak-Canada ties: PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Wednesday that Barrick Gold’s role in the Reko Diq project will be the harbinger of development in Pakistan and a success story of Pakistan-Canada economic cooperation.

He said this while meeting with newly appointed High Commissioner of Canada Ambassador Tarik Ali Khan, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a press release today.

Reko Diq is a massive, undeveloped copper and gold deposit located in Balochistan, Pakistan, which is believed to be one of the world’s largest. The project is a joint venture between Canada’s Barrick Gold (50%) and Pakistani stakeholders (50%) and aims to start production in 2028.

Canadian HC voices optimism about Reko Diq’s success

Felicitating the High Commissioner on his appointment, the PM expressed confidence that his tenure would further strengthen the long-standing and friendly relations between Pakistan and Canada.

During the meeting, the PM highlighted mines and minerals as an important area of mutual interest.

Moreover, the PM also conveyed his warm regards and greetings to the Canadian leadership and said he looked forward to working with them to build stronger ties between the two countries.

Pakistan, Canada reaffirm commitment to strengthening economic cooperation

“The Prime Minister lauded the valuable contribution of the vibrant Pakistani diaspora in Canada, which continues to serve as a vital bridge between the two nations,” the PMO quoted the premier as saying.

Tarik Ali expressed his resolve to work towards further enhancing Pakistan–Canada bilateral relations, particularly in agriculture, energy, trade, investment, technology, education, and people-to-people exchanges.