Field Marshal Asim Munir pledges security for investors, miners as Pakistan seeks mineral sector growth

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Friday assured domestic and international investors that security forces would take all necessary measures to protect mining operations, workers and investment projects, as Pakistan seeks to establish itself as a competitive destination for long-term investment in its mineral sector.

Addressing participants of the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, Field Marshal Munir said ensuring security across the mining sector remained a priority and that efforts to safeguard investors and associated industries would continue.

The two-day event is being held at Islamabad’s Jinnah Convention Centre on November 12 and 13. It has brought together government officials, mining executives and investors from more than 60 countries to explore opportunities in mineral exploration, processing and infrastructure.

“We are taking, and will continue to take, every possible measure to ensure the security of the entire mining ecosystem,” he said, adding that mines, miners, investments, industries, projects and people associated with the sector would be protected.

The army chief said unlocking Pakistan’s mineral wealth was a collective national objective, requiring sustained investment, stronger partnerships and the development of domestic industries.

He stressed that the country needed to move beyond exporting raw minerals and develop the entire value chain, including refining and manufacturing.

“Our objective is not merely to export raw materials, but to develop the entire value chain, from extraction to refining and manufacturing,” he said.

Mineral development must benefit local communities

Field Marshal Munir emphasised that mineral development must deliver tangible economic benefits to communities living in resource-rich areas.

He said local populations should see meaningful improvements in their lives through employment, economic opportunities and development linked to mining projects.

The army chief also called for long-term partnerships with international investors that would generate sustainable economic value for Pakistan and its partners.

Describing Pakistanis as hardworking, courageous and determined, he said the country’s people possessed the ability to translate ambitious plans into practical achievements.

“Our resources provide opportunities, while our people are the source of strength and determination needed to achieve results,” he said.

Field Marshal Munir urged stakeholders to accelerate the development of Pakistan’s mineral sector by shifting their focus towards production, implementation and higher-value exports.

“We must move from potential to production, from promises to action, and from raw exports to value-added growth,” he said.

The forum has brought together policymakers, provincial leaders and international investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s mineral resources and strengthen investment partnerships.