Pakistan, Canada Discuss Enhanced Cooperation in Minerals and Energy Sectors -

PAKISTAN

Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with the High Commissioner of Canada to Pakistan, H.E. Tarik Ali Khan, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in the minerals and energy sectors.

During the meeting, the Canadian high commissioner highlighted the success of Barrick Gold’s Reko Diq project as a strong foundation for expanding Pakistan–Canada cooperation in the minerals sector. He said Canada is actively encouraging more Canadian companies to participate in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum (PMIF) and expressed optimism about deeper engagement with Pakistan in a changing global environment shaped by shared values, networks and common interests.

High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan also conveyed that the Ministry of Natural Resources Canada is ready to support cooperation with Pakistan in the mineral sector. Sharing his personal experience, he said he had visited the Reko Diq site and was encouraged by the visible community development initiatives, including schools, hospitals and water purification projects.

Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik noted that Reko Diq has successfully secured international financing, making it one of the most significant funding rounds achieved by Pakistan in recent years. He emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring the highest standards of labour safety and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) compliance, and that major mining projects are being developed for long-term national benefit.

The high commissioner also invited Pakistan to participate in PDAC 2026, the world’s leading mineral exploration and mining convention, scheduled to be held in Canada in March 2026. He said the event would provide an important platform for Pakistan to showcase its mineral potential to global investors and further strengthen bilateral cooperation.

In addition, the high commissioner shared that Canada is exploring ways to provide technical assistance in the energy sector. Welcoming the initiative, the federal minister said support in technical expertise and intellectual capital would help strengthen Pakistan’s systems and enhance investor confidence.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing Pakistan–Canada relations, with minerals and energy identified as key areas of long-term cooperation.

ER News Desk

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