Manara Minerals would buy the equity stake from the government of Pakistan in the project, which is being co-developed by Canada’s Barrick Gold, the FT said, citing sources.

According to the British news outlet, Saudi Arabia ranks among the largest external creditors in the country, providing significant support through loan rollovers, central bank deposits, and oil facilities to manage its $9.2 billion debt.

Government officials have been seeking Saudi investments in recent months, as the kingdom’s willingness to financially support the country appears to be diminishing, it added.