Ahsan Iqbal pushes Nokundi-Gwadar corridor with Barrick Mining

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has called for faster development of the Nokundi-Gwadar road corridor, saying stronger links between Balochistan’s mineral belt and ports could support mineral exports. At a meeting with Barrick Mining Corporation’s senior team, he proposed setting up a joint working group without delay to settle technical needs, feasibility, financing and implementation arrangements.

The proposed group would include the Planning Ministry, National Highway Authority, Balochistan government and mining companies. Iqbal also called for detailed topographical and 3D mapping to advance the feasibility study, while Barrick’s delegation discussed logistics and coordination with government agencies. The government’s National Economic Transformation Plan 2035 targets exports of $100bn, with mining and minerals expected to contribute to that goal.