RIYADH – Federal Minister for Petroleum, Mr. Ali Pervaiz Malik, led Pakistan’s delegation at the high-profile Future Minerals Forum (FMF) in Riyadh. The participation underscored Pakistan’s commitment to integrating into the global critical minerals supply chain and attracting international investment.
High-Level Bilateral Engagements
On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Malik conducted a series of strategic bilateral meetings to strengthen Pakistan’s energy and mineral partnerships.
showcase session at Pakistan Pavilion
- Meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy: In discussions with HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al-Saud, both sides explored avenues to enhance bilateral cooperation across the energy spectrum, including petroleum supply, renewable energy, energy efficiency, and investment opportunities.
- Engagement with Saudi Minister of Investment: The meeting with Engr. Khalid Al-Falih focused on mechanisms to accelerate investment flows and foster strategic partnerships in Pakistan’s energy and minerals sectors.
- Broader Stakeholder Outreach: The Minister also held substantive discussions with key international figures, including Mr. Jassim Alshirawi, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum; Mr. Sami Takaluoma, CEO of Metso Corporation; the Chairman of Delta Oil, Mr. Badr Al-Aiban; and Eng. Saad Alkhalb, CEO of the Saudi EXIM Bank, discussing mutual prospects for collaboration.
Leadership in Ministerial Dialogue
Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik was a featured speaker on a prominent ministerial panel titled “Dawn of a Global Cause: The Role of Governments in Driving Mineral Supply.” Moderated by CNN’s Ms. Eleni Giokos, the panel included ministers from Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Mauritania, Chile, and Canada.
During the session, Minister Malik outlined Pakistan’s proactive reforms, stating that the government is “actively reducing systemic friction by simplifying the regulatory environment and harmonizing the mineral sector framework.” He emphasized Pakistan’s vast and diverse mineral reserves as a significant opportunity for global partnerships. The panel acknowledged Pakistan’s emergence as a compelling mineral destination, with Ms. Giokos remarking that the world appears to be “knocking at Pakistan’s door to secure minerals.”
Showcasing Pakistan’s Mineral Framework
Pakistan’s presence was amplified through the “Pakistan – The Mineral Marvel” Pavilion, which highlighted the nation’s technological and data-driven approach to sector development.
- The centerpiece was a live demonstration of the National Minerals Data Center (NMDC), Pakistan’s state-of-the-art digital platform for mineral sector modernization.
- Visitors engaged with interactive exhibits featuring 3D geological modeling, high-resolution GIS mapping, and real-time data visualization of Pakistan’s mineral-rich belts.
Strategic Vision and Investment Invitation
Pakistan hosted a dedicated country showcase session that drew a capacity audience. Minister Malik presented Pakistan’s strategic vision for critical minerals, affirming that “Pakistan is open for business” and that the government stands firmly behind investors. He positioned the landmark Reko Diq project not merely as a mining venture but as a benchmark that will set new standards for the industry.
Building on this momentum, the Minister formally invited global stakeholders to the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, scheduled for April 2026. The forum, themed “Beyond Reko Diq,” will serve as a premier platform for investment, collaboration, and policy dialogue.
BY: The Times Union
