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QUETTA: Various community development projects, including in the health and education sectors, were discussed during a meeting between a leading businessman and the representatives of Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC) on Wednesday.
Farooq Khilji, a former president of Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI), and Ashley Price and Mr Ahmer of RDMC explored the possibility of collaboration between the two sides to implement these projects.
The RDMC and QCCI agreed to further collaborate, with future interactions planned in Quetta, Karachi, and Islamabad.
Ex-QCCI chief, firm officials agree to deepen collaboration
The meeting highlighted the importance of the chamber’s role in fostering
business growth with Mr Khilji extending full support for community development initiatives including health, education, skill development and scholarship for the youth from Chagai.
He said the fact that over Rs6 billion worth of supplies and services were being provided to a world-class company spoke volumes about the potential of Balochistan’s suppliers to meet high standards.
He said it was heartening to note that the RDMC had awarded contracts valued at Rs6.1bn to suppliers across Balochistan over the past two years. Of this, he noted, Rs2bn worth of business was specifically given to suppliers from the Chagai district.
“Given the scale of business being awarded to local companies, we can be confident that with proper guidance and handholding, Balochistan businesses are capable of meeting the world-class standards expected by a company like RDMC,” he said. “This partnership between RDMC and local suppliers is an encouraging sign for the region’s economic growth.”
Mr Khilji proposed a collaboration between the RDMC and the QCCI to strengthen the capacity of local suppliers and vendors.
Mr Farooq also proposed a memorandum of understanding between the QCCI and RDMC and offered to organise a visit for the company’s delegation to Quetta or an interaction with the business community.
The RDMC expressed interest in advancing collaborations with the business community through its head of the supply chain management.
Published in Dawn, February 27th, 2025
