Mining projects: Ahsan proposes JWG formation to finalise feasibility, financing

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has called for an inter-agency group to settle the technical, feasibility and funding requirements for development projects involving mining companies, Business Recorder reported. The proposed group would include the Planning Ministry, the National Highway Authority, Balochistan’s government and mining firms.

Iqbal also urged faster work on the Nokundi, Gwadar road corridor, intended to improve links between Balochistan’s mineral belt and ports. At a Thursday meeting with Barrick Mining Corporation leaders, officials discussed corridor logistics, technical needs and mapping for a feasibility study; the company’s delegation welcomed the cooperation proposal. The government aims to raise exports to USD 100 billion under its National Economic Transformation Plan 2035, with minerals expected to contribute.