CHAGAI: A Member of the Balochistan Assembly, Mir Mohammad Arif Mohammad Hasni, on Saturday said that the proposed Reko Diq deal would be opposed if it was found to be against the interest of the province, particularly Chagai district.

In a statement, he said that Reko Diq copper-and-goldmine was a national treasure which could change the economic fate of the entire country and Balochistan, but unfortunately this resource-rich project had not been utilised yet.

“We have been hearing about a proposed agreement about Reko Diq which is located in Chagai and being an elected representative of this area I warn the authorities concerned that a movement will be launched if Chagai and Balochistan are left deprived of basic rights in this deal,” he warned.

Mr Hasni, who belongs to the ruling Balochistan Awami Party, urged the authorities concerned to ensure the provision of all perks and privileges for Chagai and Balochistan in the proposed Reko Diq agreement which would help reduce the poverty and unemployment.

“Strong reaction would be experienced from the people of Chagai if our rights are denied following past examples,” Mr Hasni said.

Published in Dawn, January 2nd, 2022