MUHAMMAD SALEEM

LAHORE: A German company namely Fugro is set to start its work on second phase of exploration of mineral resources in Chiniot and its adjoining areas. This survey would help identify estimated cost of minerals as well as collection of data. The company will submit its report after an exact survey of mineral resources in the Punjab.

This was revealed at a high-level meeting, held here on Saturday with Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif in the chair. Shahbaz said the Chiniot-Rajoa Iron Ore Project carried tremendous importance for the national economy.

The meeting reviewed the progress on exploration of iron ore reserves in Chiniot-Rajwa as well as progress on the second phase of the project. During the second phase, drilling and other works are expected to be completed as early as possible in a professional and scientific manner.

Shahbaz said on the occasion that work was being started on second phase of the project for the exploration of iron ore in Chiniot-Rajwa along with its assessment. He said the cost of the mineral resources had been estimated with hard work and observed that this project carried vital importance for the betterment of the national economy.

Shahbaz directed that the investors should be invited for investment by keeping in view the feasibility report of the project and the assessment of iron ore reserves in Chiniot-Rajwa.

During the meeting, briefing was given about the feature roadmap for staring work on second phase of the project.

Managing Director of Furgo Company Dr Uta Alisch, geographical experts including Dr Jens Krumb, Ralf Braumann, Secretary Mines & Minerals and other officials attended the meeting. Chairman P&D participated in the meeting through video link.

Shahbaz also spoke in German language during his meeting with the Managing Director Dr Uta Alisch and other experts of the German company.

The German experts expressed their pleasure over the conversation of Chief Minister, Punjab in German language and said Punjab CM Shahbaz Sharif has the ability to speak in German language fluently.