ISLAMABAD (Lord Media): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that Pakistan seeks to develop the capacity to process, refine, and produce finished products from its mineral resources domestically, rather than exporting them in raw form. He made these remarks during the inaugural session of the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, emphasizing the need for investment in mining, technology, energy, transport, and logistics sectors.

Ishaq Dar highlighted that mineral resource development is crucial for the next phase of economic growth, aiding in export diversification, strengthening the industrial base, attracting long-term investments, and creating employment opportunities for the public. He further mentioned that provincial participation is essential in mineral resource development, and the federal government is collaborating with provincial governments through national coordination, investment facilitation, policy harmonization, and international linkages.

He cited the Reko Diq copper and gold project as a prime example of Pakistan’s mineral potential, involving global company Barrick Gold, federal entities, and the Balochistan government as partners. Dar stressed the need for partnerships between Pakistani universities, technical institutions, and global companies to train experts for the modern mining sector.

Regarding the forum, Dar noted that participation from over 60 countries reflects the growing global interest in Pakistan’s mineral resources and the commitment to long-term partnerships in this sector. The Deputy Prime Minister stated that Pakistan aims to responsibly develop its mineral resources, strengthen its industrial base, diversify exports, empower provinces and local communities, and position the country as a competitive and reliable partner in the global mineral economy.