Islamabad (The COW News Digital) Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has described the effective utilisation of Pakistan’s mineral resources as a shared national objective, stressing that mineral development must bring tangible benefits to local communities.
Addressing participants at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026, Asim Munir said the country aimed to transform its mineral wealth into a source of sustainable economic growth and long-term investment.
He emphasised that people living in mineral-rich areas should experience visible improvements in their quality of life as a result of mining and related economic activities.
The field marshal said Pakistan wanted to establish itself as a competitive destination for long-term investment in the minerals sector. He added that all possible measures were being taken to ensure the security of the entire mining ecosystem.
According to Asim Munir, protection would be provided to mines, miners, investors, industries, projects and everyone associated with the sector. He said creating a secure environment was essential to attracting investment and developing the country’s mineral potential.
He clarified that Pakistan’s objective was not limited to exporting raw materials. Instead, the country wanted to develop the entire value chain, including refining and manufacturing, so that minerals could generate greater economic returns domestically.
The field marshal said Pakistan sought to build long-term partnerships that would create sustainable economic value for both the country and its international partners.
He also highlighted the importance of local communities in the development process, saying mineral-rich regions should not be left behind as investment and industrial activity expanded.
Asim Munir described Pakistanis as hardworking, courageous and determined people with the ability to turn ambitious goals into reality.
“Our resources provide opportunities, while our people are the source of strength and determination required to achieve results,” he said.
He stressed that the country needed to move from potential to production, from promises to practical implementation, and from raw exports towards value-added growth.
His remarks placed emphasis on the need to translate Pakistan’s natural resources into productive economic activity through investment, industrial development and stronger partnerships.
Developing refining and manufacturing facilities could help Pakistan retain a greater share of the value generated from its mineral resources, rather than relying primarily on the export of unprocessed materials.
The field marshal’s address also highlighted the importance of security in attracting investors and ensuring the continuity of mining projects. A stable and protected operating environment is considered essential for large-scale investment, particularly in areas where mineral resources remain underdeveloped.
The focus on local benefits also underlined the need for mineral projects to contribute to employment opportunities, infrastructure and improved living standards in surrounding communities.
Asim Munir concluded his address by raising the slogan, “Pakistan Zindabad.”
The Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026 provided a platform to discuss the country’s mineral potential, investment opportunities and the development of a stronger minerals industry.
