Riyadh: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have reached an agreement to further enhance their bilateral cooperation in the minerals and mining sectors. This development came about during a meeting between Pakistan's Federal Minister for Petroleum, Ali Pervaiz Malik, and Saudi Minister for Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, in Riyadh.
According to Radio Pakistan, Ali Pervaiz Malik is leading the Pakistani delegation at the Future Minerals Forum 2026, which is taking place in the Saudi capital. He emphasized the significant mineral potential of the Tethyan Belt, where Reko Diq is located, and mentioned that the Geological Survey of Pakistan is collaborating with the Saudi Geological Survey to explore this potential. Additionally, Malik highlighted the importance of joint ventures in the fertilizer production and medical equipment manufacturing sectors between the two countries.
The Saudi Minister for Industry and Mineral Resources noted the vast opportunities for cooperation in the mineral sector between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. He also assured that Saudi Arabia would support the development of Pakistan's mineral sector through its scientific and technical expertise. The Saudi Minister expressed gratitude for Pakistan's participation in the Future Minerals Forum.
Also present at the meeting was the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki. He praised the leadership of Pakistan's Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, noting that Pakistan's involvement in the forum would further strengthen the enduring relations between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
Pakistan's participation in the Future Minerals Forum 2026 is organized by Pakistan Petroleum Limited in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, Petroleum Division. The Pakistan Pavilion, themed "Mineral Marvel-Unleashing Pakistan's Mineral Revolution," showcases the country's rich geology, flagship mining projects, and investment opportunities. During a visit to the Pakistani Pavilion, Saudi Minister Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef commended the efforts of the Pakistani team, particularly noting the Pavilion's distinctive design and strong visual impact.