Islamabad: A two-day Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum opened at Jinnah Convention Center in Islamabad today. In his opening remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized Pakistan’s strategic positioning to become a global mining powerhouse, highlighting its unparalleled geological wealth.
According to Radio Pakistan, Ishaq Dar noted that Pakistan is home to monumental reserves such as Reko Diq and vast resources of rare earth elements, industrial minerals, non-metallics, and gemstones, including globally sought-after peridote and emerald. With its untapped mineral potential, Pakistan’s resource corridor is poised to reshape global supply chains and attract foreign direct investment. The government has prioritized the strategic development of the mining sector through progressive policy reforms and investor-centric initiatives to create a robust ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders.
The forum provides a unique platform for stakeholders, partners, and friendly countries to explore new prospects and build mutually beneficial partnerships. Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal reiterated that Pakistan is a prime destination for investment in minerals, with resources expected to attract significant interest from local and foreign companies. Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik highlighted Pakistan’s vast mineral wealth and the numerous opportunities for global investment. He also acknowledged the government’s success in stabilizing the economy under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif through structural reforms.
Ali Pervaiz Malik pointed out that Pakistan’s current account balance has recorded a surplus of 682 million dollars, and the inflation rate has decreased to approximately one percent. He also noted the strong performance of the Pakistan Stock Exchange and international recognition of the country’s positive economic trajectory. The government has streamlined fiscal and legal frameworks to encourage investment in the mineral sector. Malik provided a detailed presentation on Pakistan’s natural and mineral resources reserves.
CEO of Barrick Gold, Mark Bristow, discussed the Reko Diq copper-gold project, which is set to propel Pakistan into the top global mining jurisdictions. The project promises economic benefits and job creation, with a completed feasibility study positioning Reko Diq as one of the lowest cost copper producers in the world. The first production is planned for 2028, targeting 240,000 tons of copper and 300,000 ounces of gold annually.