Pakistan and Australia have explored opportunities to expand cooperation in the mining and gemstones sectors, reflecting growing international interest in Pakistan’s mineral resources. Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik met with the newly appointed Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Timothy Kane, to discuss enhanced bilateral collaboration in these areas.
Minister Malik highlighted Pakistan’s largely untapped mineral reserves, particularly in the Tethyan Belt, and proposed an intergovernmental agreement to provide a structured framework for cooperation. He emphasized efforts to formalize the gemstones sector as a source of exports, value addition, and employment.
The Australian High Commissioner noted that Australian companies are already involved in the Reko Diq copper and gold project, with more firms showing interest in joining future ventures. He encouraged participation in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum and highlighted rising global demand for copper and gold, partly driven by the energy transition, as a factor attracting international investment in Pakistan’s mining sector.
Kane also expressed optimism about collaboration in the gemstones industry through training, technical assistance, and knowledge sharing. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Australia cooperation in mining and gemstones for mutual economic benefit.
