Reko Diq: A Catalyst for Long-Term Socio-Economic Growth in Balochistan, Says Barrick CEO

Hamei, Chagai District, Balochistan | July 14, 2025:
Reko Diq is more than just a mining project—it is a long-term opportunity for socio-economic development that will benefit local communities for generations to come, said Barrick Mining Corporation CEO Mark Bristow during a visit to the village of Hamei near the Reko Diq site.

Speaking with residents, Bristow reaffirmed the commitment of Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC) to uplift the quality of life for the people of Balochistan through employment, education, and healthcare initiatives.

“We are creating job opportunities not only through RDMC itself but also through our extensive network of partners and suppliers,” Bristow stated. “We have launched training and educational programs to equip locals with the skills they need to fully benefit from these opportunities.”

Currently, 75% of RDMC’s workforce is comprised of individuals from Balochistan, with the majority hailing from Chagai District. The company aims to further increase this local representation, he added.

In addition to economic and educational efforts, RDMC has made significant investments in healthcare infrastructure in the region. The health center in Hamei village, along with a newly launched maternal and child health center, now offers vital medical services that were previously unavailable locally. This marks the first time women in the area have access to comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care close to home.

Bristow emphasized that local communities are essential stakeholders in the success of the Reko Diq project. “Mining development anywhere in the world cannot succeed without the full involvement and support of the people living in that region,” he said.

Chief of Hamei village, Malik Liaqat Mohammadzai, and Taj Mohammad Mohammadzai, Chairman of the Pir Koh Community Development Committee (CDC), appreciated Bristow’s continued engagement with the community. They thanked RDMC for bringing development and new opportunities to Hamei through the Reko Diq project and pledged their full support for its continued progress.

Bristow was accompanied by RDMC’s senior leadership team, including Country Manager Zarar Jamali, General Manager (Reko Diq Site) Ryan Mitchell, Senior Vice President (Head of Government and Corporate Affairs) Wu Li, Head of Sustainability Ashley Price, Executive for Mineral Resource Management and Evaluation Simon Bottoms, and other members of the project team.