Pakistan, Canada boost mineral cooperation, Reko Diq cited a success

January 21, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and Canada have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in the minerals and energy sectors, with a shared focus on investment, technical collaboration, and responsible resource development.

The two sides highlighted growing opportunities for partnership, particularly in mining, clean energy, and capacity building, as well as Canada’s efforts to encourage greater participation of Canadian firms in Pakistan’s mineral sector and upcoming international forums, according to a press release issued.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and the High Commissioner of Canada to Pakistan, Mr. Tarik Ali Khan.

The High Commissioner described the success of Barrick Gold at Reko Diq as a strong foundation for expanding Pakistan-Canada mineral cooperation and said Canada is actively encouraging companies to participate in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum (PMIF).

He added that, in a changing global order shaped by networks and shared interests, Canada remains open and willing to engage with Pakistan.

High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan also conveyed that the Ministry of Natural Resources Canada is ready to support cooperation in Pakistan’s mineral sector.

Sharing his personal experience of visiting the Reko Diq site, he noted visible community development initiatives, including schools, hospitals, and water purification projects, reflecting the project’s local impact.

Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said Reko Diq has secured international financing, making it one of Pakistan’s most significant funding rounds.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the highest standards of labour safety and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance, stressing that such projects are designed for the long-term benefit of the Pakistani people.

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

In addition, Canada offered technical assistance in the energy sector.

Welcoming the initiative, the federal minister said support in intellectual capital and technical expertise would strengthen Pakistan’s systems and boost investor confidence, particularly among international mining companies.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing minerals and energy cooperation as a key pillar of Pakistan-Canada relations.

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