CDF Asim Munir calls for turning mineral wealth into economic power

Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has said Pakistan aims to become a competitive destination for long-term investment in its mineral sector, stressing the need to turn the country’s mineral wealth into sustainable economic growth.

Addressing participants at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, Munir said the country was taking all possible measures to ensure the security of the entire mining ecosystem. He assured investors that mines, miners, investments, industries, projects and the people associated with the sector would be protected.

He described the development of Pakistan’s mineral resources as a shared national objective. He said the country’s goal was not limited to exporting raw materials but also included developing the entire value chain, from refining to manufacturing.

Munir stressed the importance of building long-term partnerships that could generate sustainable economic benefits for Pakistan and its international partners. He said the country wanted to create an investment-friendly environment that would support lasting cooperation and industrial development.

The army chief also emphasised that mineral development must bring tangible benefits to local communities. He said people living in mineral-rich areas should see visible improvements in their lives as a result of mining activities and related investments.

Highlighting Pakistan’s human potential, Munir described its people as hardworking, courageous and determined, with the ability to turn ambitions into reality. He said the country’s natural resources offered opportunities, while its people remained the main source of strength and determination needed to achieve results.

He called for a shift from potential to production, from promises to practical action, and from raw material exports to value-added growth.

Munir said Pakistan needed to focus on developing its mineral resources through investment, industrial capacity and stronger partnerships to ensure that the sector contributed to the country’s long-term economic progress.

He concluded by expressing confidence in Pakistan’s ability to turn its natural wealth into opportunities for national development.