Gold, Copper and Lithium exploration: Pakistan launches major mapping programme

Islamabad: Pakistan has launched a nationwide geological mapping programme to identify potential deposits of gold, copper, lithium and other valuable minerals as part of efforts to expand the country's mining sector and attract international investment.

Islamabad: Pakistan has launched a nationwide geological mapping programme to identify potential deposits of gold, copper, lithium and other valuable minerals as part of efforts to expand the country’s mining sector and attract international investment.

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik announced the initiative while addressing the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum. He said the government had also issued 40 mineral exploration licences in Chagai and Khuzdar to accelerate exploration activities.

The minister added that Chagai was being connected to Gwadar through a road network to improve transportation and support mineral development in the region.

Ali Pervaiz Malik said the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum had opened new opportunities for long-term partnerships with investors interested in the country’s mining industry. He stressed the need to prepare Pakistan’s mineral sector to compete in the international market.

Addressing the forum, Barrick Mining Corporation Chairman John Thornton expressed his company’s interest in maintaining a long-term partnership with Pakistan. Barrick is involved in the development of the Reko Diq gold and copper project.

Thornton also acknowledged the role of Pakistan’s leadership and its policies in supporting the country’s mining sector.

Meanwhile, local investors associated with mineral-related businesses described the forum as an important platform for encouraging investment and expanding commercial opportunities in the industry.

During the event, Pakistani authorities and international companies signed dozens of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements aimed at developing the country’s mineral resources.

The geological mapping initiative, exploration licences and investment agreements are part of broader efforts to identify mineral potential strengthen the mining industry and establish long-term cooperation with international investors.