Barrick Gold Reaffirms Commitment to Reko Diq Project Amid Security Review

Barrick Gold Corporation and Pakistan are currently evaluating security arrangements and procurement strategies for the Reko Diq copper-gold project in Balochistan, with the review required under the project agreement. The managing director of OGDCL, Ahmed Hayat Lak, noted that lenders have expressed confidence in existing security protocols, and new financiers are showing interest in the venture.

A delegation from Barrick, led by Executive Chairman John L. Thornton, recently visited Islamabad to discuss the situation and explore advanced equipment acquisition through competitive bidding. The review will determine if security enhancements and additional funding are necessary, reaffirming that Pakistan is responsible for site protection. The energy sector is also addressing gas pricing and production levels in response to supply disruptions, indicating a focus on energy security amid regional instability.