Pakistan and France have agreed to enhance collaboration in the minerals and mining sector, focusing on investment, exploration, and sustainable development. The agreement was formalized during a high-level webinar titled “Pakistan’s Minerals Economy: Gateway to Growth”, jointly organized by the Government of Pakistan and the Embassy of France in Islamabad.
Pakistan is rich in minerals, with the Chaghi belt in Balochistan holding substantial reserves of copper, gold, and rare earth elements. With the global shift toward green energy, minerals like copper, lithium, and rare earth elements have become crucial for modern technologies, making international partnerships vital for sustainable growth.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik highlighted Pakistan’s mineral potential and reaffirmed the government’s commitment through the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to provide a transparent regulatory framework and facilitate international investors.
French Ambassador Nicolas Galey praised Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen the mining sector, stating:
“France sees great potential in Pakistan’s minerals sector. French companies are eager to deepen cooperation and share expertise to support sustainable growth.”
The webinar included senior officials from Pakistan’s Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), the SIFC, and executives from major state-owned firms like OGDC, PPL, GHPL, and PMDC, along with French business representatives and Benjamin Gallezot, Advisor to the French President on Mining. The partnership aims to attract international investment, promote sustainable mining practices, and support long-term growth in Pakistan’s minerals economy.