Major firms unite to unlock Pakistan’s mineral wealth

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is positioning itself as a rising player in the global mining industry, with a significant delegation attending 4th annual International Mining Ministers’ meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Led by Dr Musadik Malik, Minister for Petroleum, Pakistan’s delegation is aiming to highlight country’s untapped mining potential and attract international investment at the Future Minerals Forum (FMF), which began on Tuesday.

The FMF, a key event for global mining sector, draws participants from 85 countries. It serves as a platform for industry leaders, service providers and operators to showcase innovations and forge new partnerships.

Pakistan’s participation at the forum reflects its growing ambition to position itself as a key player in mining sector, particularly in light of its wealth of natural resources, including copper, gold and rare-earth elements.

Pakistani delegation comprises key policymakers, state-owned enterprises and private sector leaders. Notable companies represented include Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Mari Energies, Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL), Pakistan Minerals (Private) Limited, Saindak Metals Limited, Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation, Balochistan Mineral Resource Limited, Bolan Mining Enterprises, Wah Nobel, HTMA Private Limited, and BIAFO Industries Limited.

These entities aim to foster international partnerships and secure investments in Pakistan’s mining sector.A highlight of Pakistan’s presence at the forum is the Pakistan Pavilion, which has already attracted over 500 visitors on its opening day, with around 350 attending by midday. The pavilion, a collaborative effort between Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) and 12 leading Pakistani companies, has become a hub for discussions on potential collaborations.

Among its most notable features is “Mineral Map of Pakistan”, which outlines country’s mineral-rich regions, including Tethyan Belt, home to world-class deposits, such as Reko Diq and Saindak.

The pavilion has seen substantial engagement from global mining companies, industry service providers, investors and media representatives. This interaction is crucial for fostering deeper connections between Pakistani companies and international mining community.

A significant event at the forum will take place on Thursday when Pakistan’s delegation will host a 90-minute session. The session will present insights into Pakistan’s mining opportunities and outline country’s strategic vision for the sector’s growth.

Focus will be on country’s mineral-rich regions, emphasising potential of large-scale deposits, such as Reko Diq and Saindak.Pakistan’s government has introduced a range of investor-friendly policies to encourage foreign investment in its mining sector. These include tax exemptions and duty breaks aimed at making the country a more attractive destination for mining investment.

Pakistan is also emphasising sustainable mining practices and integration of cleaner energy technologies, further enhancing its appeal to global investors.Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources visited the FMF, engaging with delegates and exploring various exhibits, underscoring importance of the forum as a platform for international collaboration in mining sector.

With its strategic vision and growing commitment to attracting investment, Pakistan’s participation in the FMF marks a significant step in efforts to unlock full potential of its mining sector and secure its place in the global market.