ISLAMABAD, Jan 27 (APP): Pakistan and Australia on Tuesday discussed avenues for enhanced bilateral cooperation in the mining and gemstone sectors.
During a meeting with Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan Timothy Kane, Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik welcomed the strong interest shown by Australian companies in Pakistan’s mining sector and highlighted the country’s vast untapped mineral potential, particularly in the Tethyan Belt.
The minister proposed the possibility of an intergovernmental agreement between Pakistan and Australia to promote structured and long-term cooperation in the mining sector.
The minister also underscored the government’s efforts to develop and formalise the gemstones sector, stressing its potential for value addition, export growth and employment generation.
The Australian high commissioner said Australian companies were already actively involved in the Reko Diq project, while additional firms had shown keen interest in joining the venture.
He added that Australian companies would be encouraged to participate in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, expressing hope for a strong Australian presence at the event.
Highlighting the growing global importance of copper and gold for the energy transition, the high commissioner said that Pakistan’s mining sector had attracted significant international attention.
He expressed optimism about collaboration in the gemstones sector through knowledge-sharing, training and technical assistance.
The federal minister appreciated Australia’s willingness to support Pakistan in efforts to formalise the minerals sector, terming such cooperation timely and reassuring.
He also recalled his recent visit to Australia for the International Mining and Resources Conference, where discussions were held with leading and junior Australian mining companies on investment and cooperation opportunities.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan–Australia cooperation in the mining and gemstones sectors for mutual benefit.