Malik Waqar
COAS Highlights Economic Security as Key to National Security
“27 Balochistan Students Undergoing Training in Mineral Exploration,” Says General Munir
ISLAMABAD – Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has reaffirmed the Pakistan Army’s commitment to providing a robust security framework for both local and international investors in the mineral sector. Speaking at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25) on Tuesday, he underscored the importance of creating a secure and enabling environment to attract investment and unlock Pakistan’s mineral potential.
General Munir emphasised that economic security is now a vital pillar of national security, and the military is fully prepared to support the development of Pakistan’s mineral wealth. He stated that with substantial reserves, a capable workforce, and a transparent policy in place, Pakistan is well-positioned to become a global leader in the mineral economy.
“To unlock Pakistan’s mineral wealth, we need engineers, geologists, operators, and skilled miners,” he said, revealing that 27 students from Balochistan are currently undergoing specialised training in mineral exploration in Zambia and Argentina. This initiative is part of efforts to build a qualified domestic workforce for the sector.
He also highlighted the need for investment not only in extraction but in refining and value addition industries within Pakistan. “Development of both upstream and downstream mineral industries is essential to reduce costs and diversify markets,” General Munir noted.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to becoming a trusted partner in the global mining sector, the COAS assured both Pakistani and international stakeholders of the country’s reliability and dedication to long-term partnerships. He also acknowledged and appreciated the support of Baloch tribal elders in promoting mining activity and fostering development in the region.
Concluding his address, General Munir said that with a collaborative approach, Pakistan’s mineral sector has the potential to drive regional prosperity and contribute meaningfully to sustainable economic growth.
Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25)
The two-day PMIF25 event is currently underway in Islamabad, drawing an estimated 2,000 attendees. The forum is designed to showcase Pakistan’s vast mineral potential, with the government presenting a mineral-rich terrain spanning approximately 600,000 square kilometres.
Around 300 international delegates are attending the forum, including representatives from Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, China, the United States, Denmark, Kenya, Finland, and the United Kingdom. The US delegation is led by Eric Meyer, Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.
Notable participants include officials from the US State Department, US Exim Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and CEOs from leading global mining companies.
Several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed during the forum, as part of broader efforts to enhance foreign investment and infrastructure development in the sector.
Despite its vast resources, Pakistan’s mineral sector currently contributes just 3.2% to the national GDP, with exports accounting for only 0.1% of the global total. However, industry experts believe that with greater exploration and investor confidence, the sector is poised for significant growth.
A major highlight of the forum will be the launch of the National Minerals Harmonisation Framework 2025, a federal initiative aimed at aligning policies and attracting long-term investment in the mineral sector.
