Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has reaffirmed the Pakistan Army’s commitment to supporting the development of the country’s mineral sector, calling it a critical component of national economic security.

Speaking at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 in Islamabad on Tuesday, the army chief expressed confidence that Pakistan is poised to become a global leader in the mineral economy.

“I firmly believe that Pakistan is ready to emerge as a leader in the global mineral economy,” Gen Munir said, highlighting the vast untapped potential of the country’s mineral resources and the collective responsibility to unlock it.

General Munir invited international institutions and investors to partner with Pakistan, offering their expertise, investment, and technology to develop the country’s mineral wealth. “We welcome international institutions to share their expertise, explore opportunities, and join hands with us to develop this sector,” he said.

The army chief emphasized the importance of skilled manpower, revealing that 27 students from Balochistan are currently undergoing professional training in mineral exploration in Zambia and Argentina.

“We are sending students abroad to develop a skilled workforce — engineers, geologists, and operators — who are essential for extracting the mineral wealth of Pakistan and sustainable growth in this sector,” he added. "Our aim is also to create manpower, skills, and human resources for the mineral sector."

He stressed that building human resources and technical expertise was as important as physical infrastructure, noting that the future of Pakistan’s minerals sector depends on a trained and motivated workforce.

Highlighting the strategic significance of minerals, General Munir said, “Economic security has emerged as an important component of national security.” He assured foreign and local investors that the Pakistan Army would provide a robust security framework and proactive measures to protect their interests and confidence and ensure a stable environment for business operations.

To boost economic outcomes, General Munir called for investment in refining and value addition within Pakistan, stating that this would enhance cost-efficiency and open access to a diversified range of markets. “It’s time to ensure upstream and downstream mineral industries thrive within Pakistan,” he said.

With confidence in Pakistan’s geological riches and policy direction, the COAS encouraged proactive action. “With vast mineral reserves under our feet, expertise in our hands, and a transparent mineral policy in place, there is no room for despair and inaction. Move forward and struggle — for the country and for yourself,” he urged.

General Munir also acknowledged the role of Baloch tribal elders, recognizing their contribution to promoting mining activities and the development of Balochistan. He emphasized the importance of regional collaboration to ensure collective prosperity and sustainability through the minerals sector.

“Together, we can make Pakistan a reliable and attractive destination for mining investment. You can count on Pakistan as your trusted partner,” he concluded.