Pakistan, China strengthen mining ties at Islamabad forum

WEB DESK: The Pakistan-China Minerals Cooperation Forum was held in Islamabad, bringing together mining companies from both China and Pakistan. Addressing the forum, Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik described the event as a significant milestone in the 75-year diplomatic relationship between the two countries.

“The Pakistan-China partnership symbolises trust and long-term cooperation,” Malik said, highlighting the role of Chinese investment under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in driving Pakistan’s energy sector growth, economic development, and employment opportunities.

He noted China’s prominent role in critical minerals, copper, smelting, and refining, and cited the Sindh Copper-Gold and Dudder projects as successful examples of Pakistan-China mining collaboration. Malik added that Chinese companies, including MCC, have contributed significantly to Pakistan’s mineral exports.

Since 2010, cooperation between the Geological Survey of Pakistan and the China Geological Survey has been an important asset for Pakistan. Joint mining projects have enhanced energy security and created employment opportunities. Malik emphasized that Pakistan offers vast investment opportunities for Chinese companies, and the government will ensure policy stability and full facilitation for investors.

He also invited mining companies to participate in the upcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, scheduled for April, to further strengthen bilateral collaboration in the mining sector.