Army chief seeks greater investment in Pakistan’s mineral sector

Army Chief and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir has called for greater long-term investment in Pakistan’s mineral sector.

Speaking at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, he said the country must move beyond exporting raw minerals and build domestic refining and manufacturing industries to unlock the economic potential of its natural resources.

What did Asim Munir say about Pakistan’s mineral sector?

Munir said Pakistan aims to become a competitive destination for long-term mineral investment. The government and security institutions, he said, are committed to protecting the mining sector and its investors.

He described mineral development as a national priority and called for an integrated value chain instead of raw material exports.

How will mining investors be protected?

He said security measures would cover the entire mining ecosystem, including mines, workers, investors, industrial facilities, projects and others involved in the sector. Munir added that Pakistan sought long-term partnerships with international investors.

He said such partnerships should generate sustainable economic benefits for both the country and its partners.

How should mineral projects benefit local communities?

The army chief said mineral development should improve living standards in resource-rich regions. Local communities, he said, must see tangible benefits from projects operating in their areas.

He described Pakistan’s population as hardworking and determined. The country’s natural resources, he said, offered opportunities that could be realized through the efforts and capabilities of its people.

What shift does COAS want in the mineral sector?

Munir called for a shift from potential to production, from commitments to implementation, and from raw material exports to value-added growth.

He expressed confidence that investment, security and industrial development could help Pakistan realize its mineral potential.