Dar urges reforms to unlock Pakistan’s mineral wealth

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has stressed the need for policy reforms and greater international investment to unlock Pakistan’s vast mineral potential and strengthen its mining industry.

Addressing the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum in Islamabad on Thursday, Dar said the country had enormous untapped opportunities in the minerals and mining sector, which could be developed through improved policies, foreign investment and stronger international partnerships.

He said the government was offering global investors attractive opportunities in Pakistan’s mineral sector and working to create an environment that encouraged greater participation from international companies.

Dar maintained that restoring investor confidence remained a key priority for both federal and provincial governments. He said coordinated efforts were underway to improve the investment climate and establish stronger partnerships with international stakeholders.

The deputy prime minister also highlighted the importance of developing local skills and introducing modern technologies to improve the country’s mining capabilities. He said international cooperation would help Pakistan strengthen its technical expertise, improve mineral exploration and make better use of its natural resources.

Dar said the government was promoting the mineral sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while Field Marshal Asim Munir was facilitating efforts to develop and promote the country’s national resources.

He reiterated that Pakistan was committed to providing international investors with opportunities to participate in the development of its mineral wealth.

Highlighting the importance of Balochistan, Dar described the province as the future of Pakistan’s mineral industry, given its significant reserves and potential for mining and exploration.

He said improved policies, international partnerships and investor-friendly measures could help transform the mineral sector into an important contributor to economic growth, investment and national development.