ISLAMABAD: The Weir Group, a global leader in mining technology, has been awarded a significant contract worth £53 million (approximately USD 69 million) for mining equipment for the Reko Diq greenfield copper-gold project in Pakistan. The Weir Group made on Tuesday which marks a major milestone in the development of one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper-gold resources.
The contract entails the supply of advanced mining equipment, including fine grinding, separation, and tailings solutions, for the project’s initial phase. The equipment will be utilized at the Reko Diq site, located in the Chaghi district of Balochistan province. This project is a key component of Canadian mining giant Barrick Gold’s expansive copper portfolio.
Reko Diq is a strategic venture with a complex ownership structure: Barrick Gold holds a 50% stake, three federal state-owned enterprises collectively own 25%, the Province of Balochistan has a 15% stake on a fully funded basis, and the remaining 10% is held by the Province of Balochistan on a free carried basis.
Jon Stanton, CEO of Weir Group, expressed enthusiasm about securing the contract, highlighting the technological and environmental benefits of their solutions. “We are delighted to have secured this significant contract, which underscores the industry’s acceptance of Weir’s sustainable and cost-effective solutions. Our HPGR technology is particularly well-suited for the water-scarce climate and challenging geology of the Reko Diq project,” Stanton said.
Barrick Gold’s President and CEO, Mark Bristow, also welcomed the partnership, emphasizing the project’s importance for Barrick’s strategic growth. “Barrick is pleased to partner with Weir to advance sustainable mining and processing in the new mining frontier of Balochistan.
Earlier in July, Chinoy Engineering & Construction (Pvt) Limited (CECL), an associated company of International Industries Limited (INIL), secured a contract for the construction of a Permanent Accommodation Camp at Reko Diq.