Barrick Gold CEO Mark Bristow Hails Reko Diq Project as Key to Pakistan’s Mining Future

Mark Bristow, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Barrick Gold, has hailed the Reko Diq copper-gold project as a key driver for Pakistan’s emergence as a leading player in the global mining industry. Speaking at the two-day Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum held at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad, Bristow emphasised the project’s transformative potential for the country’s economy.

“The Reko Diq copper-gold project will be the beacon that leads Pakistan into the race of the top global mining jurisdictions,” said Bristow, underlining the strategic importance of the project. He highlighted that the project will not only contribute to Pakistan’s economy but will also create thousands of jobs, benefiting communities across the region.

Bristow further revealed that the feasibility study for the Reko Diq project has been completed, with plans to make the mine one of the lowest-cost copper producers in the world. The project, located in Balochistan, is set to produce approximately 240,000 tonnes of copper and 300,000 ounces of gold annually. First production is expected by 2028.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar praised Pakistan’s rich geological resources, noting the country’s strategic position as an emerging global mining powerhouse. He expressed confidence that Reko Diq and other mining projects will play a significant role in unlocking Pakistan’s full mineral potential.