ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Monday assured investors that the Pakistan Army would implement a robust security framework to safeguard their interests and confidence, particularly in Balochistan, as the country embarks on a mission to unlock its vast mineral wealth.
Speaking at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25) in Islamabad, General Munir stressed that economic security is now a vital pillar of national security, and the military is committed to supporting Pakistan’s mining sector development.
Highlighting the country’s immense mineral potential, he invited international companies to explore opportunities and collaborate in utilising Pakistan’s vast natural resources. “Pakistan can become a global leader in the mineral sector,” he said.
General Munir noted that unlocking this potential requires a skilled workforce, including engineers, geologists, operators, and miners. He revealed that 27 students from Balochistan are currently receiving advanced training in mineral exploration in Zambia and Argentina, as part of a broader effort to strengthen local capacity.
He also emphasised the need to invest in value addition and refining industries within Pakistan. “Developing both upstream and downstream sectors is crucial to cutting costs and diversifying our markets,” he added.
With transparent policies in place, valuable reserves underground, and a capable workforce, Gen Munir said, “Pakistan offers a reliable and trustworthy partnership for international investors.”
The army chief also praised the Baloch tribal elders for their contributions toward fostering mining activity and regional development, reaffirming the military’s support for inclusive economic growth.
PMIF25: A Showcase of Opportunity
The Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 is a two-day event taking place in Islamabad from April 8–9, drawing approximately 2,000 participants, including 300 international representatives.
The event aims to highlight Pakistan’s untapped mineral-rich landscape, which spans over 600,000 square kilometers.
Delegations from Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, China, the United States, and representatives from institutions like the US Exim Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), and mining companies from Denmark, Kenya, Finland, and the UK are in attendance.
A number of investment agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed during the forum.
Despite having rich reserves, the mineral sector currently contributes only 3.2% to Pakistan’s GDP and accounts for just 0.1% of global mineral exports. However, with renewed focus on exploration, foreign investment, and infrastructure, the industry is poised for transformation.
A major highlight of the event will be the launch of the National Minerals Harmonisation Framework 2025, designed to attract investment and streamline regulation across provinces.
The United States is being represented by Eric Meyer, Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, to explore investment avenues and promote mutual interests in the mining sector.
