Islamabad, Apr 9, 2025: PM Encourages Investors to Explore Pakistan’s Rich Mineral Wealth. PM Shehbaz Sharif has strongly urged both domestic and international investors to take advantage of Pakistan’s vast and largely untapped mineral resources.
Speaking at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF-25) held in Islamabad, the Prime Minister emphasized the immense potential these resources hold in reducing the country’s dependency on global financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
“PM Encourages Investors to capitalize on the value of Pakistan’s mineral wealth,” said Sharif. He pointed out that the mineral deposits within the country, estimated to be worth trillions of dollars, are widely recognized and could pave the way for economic independence.
READ MORE:
Barrick Approves Project Plan for Reko Diq Copper-Gold Mine in Pakistan
He stressed that by harnessing these resources, Pakistan could break free from external debts and reduce its reliance on costly international loans.
The Prime Minister underlined the importance of moving beyond the export of raw materials and focusing on adding value through the processing and export of finished and semi-finished products.
He urged for a strategic shift in how the nation approaches its mineral sector, transforming it into an economic engine that drives growth and development.
PM Encourages Investors to foster long-term partnerships, suggesting that any investments should include a gradual transfer of technology to Pakistan.
This would not only contribute to the economy but also ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector through skill-building initiatives and joint ventures.
He also encouraged the establishment of vocational training centers to equip the local workforce with necessary skills.
At the event, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar echoed Sharif’s sentiments, stating that Pakistan’s strategic position and its abundant mineral reserves, including those at Reko Diq and other valuable resources, position the country as a future leader in the global mining industry.
Dar further highlighted that the newly introduced National Minerals Harmonisation Framework 2025 aims to streamline policies and attract both local and foreign investment into the sector, which currently contributes just 3.2 percent to Pakistan’s GDP.
The forum, which witnessed significant participation from key civil and military leaders, including Chief of Army Staff Gen.
Syed Asim Munir, has attracted over 2,000 participants, including 300 international delegates from organizations like the US State Department, Asian Development Bank, and prominent mining companies.
The event serves as a platform to showcase the immense mineral wealth of Pakistan, spanning over 600,000 square kilometers.
PM Encourages Investors to take part in the transformation of the mining sector, with a special emphasis on Balochistan, where some of the most valuable reserves are located.
Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal pointed out that Balochistan offers unparalleled investment opportunities that.
READ MORE:
Barrick Gold CEO: Reko Diq is a “Beacon” Project to Elevate Pakistan in Global Mining
When capitalized upon, could drastically change the economic landscape of the region. Kamal also mentioned that addressing security and regulatory concerns will be critical in attracting both regional and global investors.
Federal Minister for Power Ali Pervaiz Malik noted that Pakistan’s government has been working diligently to streamline its legal framework to make the country more attractive to investors.
He emphasized that the government’s commitment to supporting the mining sector, alongside consultations with provincial authorities, ensures a cohesive approach to fostering investments.
The two-day event, which began on April 8, 2025, aims to promote foreign direct investment (FDI) and develop long-term partnerships that could significantly benefit the nation’s economy.
The PMIF-25 highlights Pakistan’s rich mineral potential and serves as a critical step toward achieving energy and economic security by harnessing its domestic resources.
International interest in Pakistan’s mineral sector is growing, with representatives from the US, Saudi Arabia, China, and Finland expressing interest in strategic cooperation.
Discussions at the forum include key issues such as geological mapping, mineral extraction, and legal reforms in Pakistan’s national mineral policy.
The forum is set to conclude on April 9, with multiple agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) expected to be signed, solidifying Pakistan’s path toward becoming a global mining powerhouse.
