Pakistan has pledged to reinforce security measures at the Chinese-operated Saindak copper and gold mine in Balochistan after the operator expressed worries about the security environment and potential interruptions to its activities. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry announced this development on Wednesday.
Chaudhry revealed that the Ministry of Interior received concerns from Saindak Metals Limited in early July. In response, the ministry instructed provincial authorities and relevant security agencies to intensify protection for the company’s facilities, workforce, logistics, and transportation routes.
“We have ordered provincial authorities and all concerned security forces to increase deployment across all installations, personnel, logistics, and transport corridors,” he stated. He emphasized that safeguarding projects managed by international firms in Pakistan remains a top government priority. Additionally, Chaudhry noted that enhanced security would also cover the movement of cargo and logistics related to the site.
This assurance came after a Financial Times report on Wednesday highlighted that Saindak Metals Limited had alerted federal energy officials about the difficulties in maintaining operations if disruptions along supply routes persist.
Meanwhile, China’s foreign ministry, when asked about the issue, said it was not aware of the specific circumstances but reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties between Beijing and Islamabad. A spokesperson described China and Pakistan as steadfast friends and all-weather strategic partners, affirming Beijing’s commitment to collaborating with Pakistan to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions.
The Saindak project, situated in Balochistan’s Chagai district, is operated by the state-owned Metallurgical Corporation of China under a lease extended in 2022. A substantial portion of the mine’s output is reportedly exported to China.
Balochistan hosts several major mineral and infrastructure projects, including ventures supported by China and the deep-water port of Gwadar. However, the province has faced ongoing security challenges that have impacted investor confidence and business operations.
The situation is being closely monitored due to its potential effects on other mining projects in the region, notably Barrick Mining’s USD 9 billion Reko Diq copper and gold project, located approximately 50 kilometers from Saindak.
