Pakistan and France Join Hands to Explore Opportunities in Minerals
Pakistan has taken a significant step toward strengthening international cooperation in the minerals and mining sector through a high-level engagement with France. The Government of Pakistan, in collaboration with the Embassy of France, organized a comprehensive webinar titled “Pakistan’s Minerals Economy: Gateway to Growth,” aimed at showcasing the country’s mineral wealth and inviting French investors to explore strategic opportunities.
The webinar was co-chaired by Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and French Ambassador Nicolas Galey, with participation from senior government officials, industry leaders, and French business representatives. The event was hosted at OGDC Headquarters in Islamabad, while Benjamin Gallezot, the Inter-Ministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals and Metals and Advisor to the French President, led the French side online.
A New Era of Collaboration in the Mining Sector
Bringing together stakeholders from the Ministry of Energy, the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), major Pakistani mineral companies, and leading French firms, the webinar highlighted Pakistan’s untapped potential in minerals and natural resources. With vast reserves of copper, gold, rare earth elements, and other strategic minerals, Pakistan aims to position itself as an emerging hub for responsible and sustainable mining.
Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik emphasized the government’s strong commitment to developing a transparent, investor-friendly mining environment.
He stated:
“The Government of Pakistan, through the SIFC, is fully committed to providing all facilitation and a transparent regulatory framework to attract international investors and build strong, long-term partnerships.”
His remarks underscored the government’s broader vision of transforming the minerals sector into a major engine of economic growth.
French Interest in Pakistan’s Resource Potential
French Ambassador Nicolas Galey expressed optimism about future collaborations, noting that France recognizes Pakistan’s rich resource base and is keen to explore sustainable mining ventures.
The Ambassador commended Pakistan’s effort to improve governance, streamline investment processes, and introduce reforms that enhance investor confidence. He reiterated France’s interest in engaging with credible local partners to build long-term, mutually beneficial projects.
Industry Leaders Welcome French Companies
OGDC MD/CEO Ahmed Hayat Lak also reaffirmed the organization’s readiness to partner with French firms in both ongoing and future exploration initiatives.
“Pakistan’s mineral industry offers promising investment opportunities, and we welcome French companies to collaborate in exploration and development initiatives,” he said.
His statement highlights OGDC’s strategy to expand international partnerships and strengthen its role in advancing Pakistan’s minerals and energy landscape.
Conclusion: Building Strong Strategic Partnerships
The Pakistan–France minerals webinar marks an important milestone in international investment cooperation. With Pakistan focusing on sustainable extraction, transparent regulation, and international engagement through bodies like the SIFC, the event reflects a shared commitment to unlocking the country’s mineral potential.
As discussions evolve, both nations are poised to explore joint ventures, technology exchange, and long-term partnerships that support sustainable economic growth.
