ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has assured enhanced security for the Chinese-operated Saindak copper and gold project in Balochistan after the mine’s operator raised concerns over the security situation and the potential disruption of operations, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said on Wednesday.

Speaking to Reuters, Chaudhry said the Ministry of Interior received the concerns of Saindak Metals Limited earlier this month and subsequently directed provincial authorities and relevant security agencies to strengthen protection for the company’s installations, personnel, logistics and transportation routes.

“We have directed the provincial authorities and all concerned security agencies to beef up deployment for all of their installations, personnel, logistics and transportation,” he said.

The minister said protecting projects operated by international companies remains a top government priority, adding that enhanced security would also be provided for cargo movement and supply lines linked to the project.

The assurance comes after the Financial Times reported that the management of Saindak Metals Limited had warned federal energy authorities that continued disruptions to supply routes could make operations increasingly difficult to sustain.

Responding to reports, China’s Foreign Ministry said it was not aware of the specific situation but reaffirmed Beijing’s close partnership with Islamabad.

“China and Pakistan are staunch friends and all-weather strategic partners,” a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said, adding that China would continue working with Pakistan to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals, institutions and projects.

Located in Balochistan’s Chagai district, the Saindak copper and gold project is operated by China’s state-owned Metallurgical Corporation of China under a lease extended in 2022. A substantial portion of the mine’s production is exported to China.

Balochistan hosts several strategic mining and infrastructure projects, including Chinese-backed investments and the Gwadar deep-water port. However, persistent security challenges in the province have continued to affect investor confidence and business operations.

The security situation is also being closely monitored due to its potential impact on other major mining ventures in the region, including Barrick Mining’s $9 billion Reko Diq copper and gold project, located about 50 kilometres from Saindak.