Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday inaugurated the upgraded Geoscience Advance Research Laboratories of the Geological Survey of Pakistan. The ceremony was attended by Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, alongside federal ministers and distinguished foreign dignitaries.

According to Radio Pakistan, the event marked a significant enhancement of the country’s mineral research capabilities. This upgrade highlights the growing attention towards developing Pakistan’s mineral sector. Established in 1991, the laboratory has undergone comprehensive modernization to align with international standards.

The revitalized laboratory complex in Chak Shehzad now boasts ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, certifying its technical competence for testing and calibration in accordance with global benchmarks. This accreditation allows the facility to provide internationally recognized analytical data, essential for mining companies engaged in reserve estimation.

Officials from the Geological Survey of Pakistan noted that the up-gradation and accreditation are pivotal for attracting investments in the mineral sector. The reliable data produced by the facility is crucial for international mining companies and financial institutions involved in major projects.

Building on a legacy of over three decades, the modernized facility is set to serve as a state-of-the-art hub. It is equipped to meet the evolving and demanding needs of modern mineral sector development, ensuring Pakistan remains competitive in the global market.