Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to harness its vast mineral wealth, which he described as being worth trillions of dollars, to secure economic independence and reduce reliance on international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Speaking at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 in Islamabad, the premier highlighted the transformative potential of the country’s untapped mineral reserves. “If properly explored and utilized, our mineral assets can help free Pakistan from the burden of foreign loans and support long-term financial stability,” Sharif stated.
A key focus of the Prime Minister’s address was on value addition within the country. He emphasized that raw minerals should be processed domestically, not exported in raw form. “We must ensure that Pakistan becomes a hub for mineral processing to generate jobs, stimulate growth, and retain more value within the local economy,” he said.
The government is prioritizing reforms in the mining and resource extraction sectors, including regulatory improvements and incentives to encourage both domestic and foreign investment.
The forum attracted substantial interest from global investors, particularly from the United States, reflecting growing confidence in Pakistan’s mineral sector reforms and potential. Representatives from leading mining companies explored partnerships, joint ventures, and technology sharing aimed at sustainable resource development.
This renewed focus on mineral development is part of the broader government strategy to shift Pakistan away from external debt dependence, especially on institutions like the IMF, and toward self-sufficiency through natural resource management.
The forum serves as a platform to position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global minerals market, especially in critical and strategic minerals required for technology and energy transitions.
