Barrick Gold starts work on Reko Diq project.

QUETTA -- The Canada-based Barrick Gold Corporation has formally launched work on the Reko Diq project in Balochistan, the company's head announced on Sunday.

In a ceremony held at the Chief Minister's secretariat on Sunday, Barrick Gold Corporation Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow said the company has also established a project office in Quetta.

'We have hired the best team of experts while locals are also working on the project,' he added.

The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo, Balochistan Assembly Acting Speaker Sardar Babar Musakhail, Opposition Leader Malik Sikander Khan, MPAs and cabinet members.

Mr Bizenjo said the presence of opposition members in the ceremony was a sign that the government and the opposition were on the same page as far as the project was concerned.

'We have reached this stage after passing through some difficulties, including legislation, taking the political leadership into confidence and removing hurdles in signing the historical agreement,' the chief minister said.

He said the legislation was a difficult phase but it has been achieved amicably and now the implementation of the project has started.

Mt Bizenjo added the project will prove to be a blessing for Balochistan and Pakistan.

The Barrick Gold Corporation CEO also thanked the chief minister and the members of the provincial assembly for welcoming him and his team.

Calling the event historic, Mr Bristow said the work on the project commenced at the start of the new year.

Mr Bristow said further recruitment process...