Islamabad: Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir has announced that Pakistan is poised to become a leader in the global mineral economy. Addressing the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, he emphasized the nation’s readiness to welcome international institutions to introduce their expertise, explore investment opportunities, and partner in developing Pakistan’s vast resource potential.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Army Chief highlighted the critical need for skilled professionals in Pakistan’s mineral sector, including engineers, geologists, operators, and mining specialists. In a strategic move to advance this sector, Pakistani students are being sent abroad for training. Currently, twenty-seven students from Balochistan are receiving education in mineral exploration in Zambia and Argentina, with the aim of developing a strong workforce and expertise in the mineral sector.
General Munir stressed the importance of economic security as a vital component of national security, assuring that the Pakistan Army will provide a robust security framework to protect the interests and trust of partners and investors. He emphasized prioritizing the development of upstream and downstream mineral industries in Pakistan, along with investing in refining and value addition to optimize costs and diversify markets.
With vast mineral reserves, skilled individuals, and a transparent mineral policy in place, the Army Chief urged the nation to move forward without despair or inaction. He reaffirmed the commitment of Pakistanis to assure their partners and investors of the national aspiration to utilize expertise for business and mineral wealth extraction, positioning Pakistan as a reliable partner.
Acknowledging the efforts of Baloch tribal elders, General Munir highlighted their crucial role in promoting mining activities and advancing Balochistan’s development. He concluded by expressing confidence that through collaboration, Pakistan’s mineral sector can foster regional development, prosperity, and sustainability for collective benefit.