UK signals $400K support for Pakistan's mineral sector

January 21, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and the United Kingdom collaboration in the oil, gas and minerals sectors was reviewed with a focus on investment opportunities, sectoral reforms and institutional strengthening, as the United Kingdom indicated support of up to $400,000 for a minerals sector capacity-building initiative.

Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held the meeting with British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott, during which both sides exchanged views on enhancing bilateral cooperation across the energy and minerals landscape.

The British high commissioner said Pakistan has tremendous potential and noted that significant economic reforms are underway.

She expressed the United Kingdom’s strong interest in further strengthening cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in the energy and minerals sectors, said a press release issued.

Discussions covered opportunities in oil and gas exploration and mineral development.

The minister emphasized that transparent and credible processes are essential to building investor confidence and attracting foreign investment, adding that the government is taking concrete steps to strengthen institutional capacity across the energy sector.

The meeting also reviewed progress in minerals sector cooperation. Both sides appreciated the growing collaboration between the British Geological Survey and the Geological Survey of Pakistan to develop a comprehensive capacity-building initiative.

The British side has indicated support of up to $400,000 for the program, which is expected to contribute significantly to the development of Pakistan’s minerals sector.

Highlighting the importance of an effective regulator for a sustainable oil and gas sector, the minister underlined the potential role of the UK in supporting the restructuring and capacity building of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).

He proposed a comprehensive diagnostic exercise, including the adoption of modern governance tools to enhance institutional performance. The British side agreed that the regulator plays a critical role and said such cooperation could be jointly explored.

The minister also encouraged greater participation by British companies, inviting them to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan.

The British side acknowledged strong UK capabilities in offshore exploration and noted that cooperation in this area holds considerable potential.

Reference was also made to Pakistan’s recent offshore bidding round, which attracted international participation, and the possibility of partnerships between British firms and Pakistan’s state-owned enterprises.

An invitation was extended to attend the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum scheduled for April 8–9.

The British side recalled the success of last year’s forum and assured efforts would be made to mobilize British companies, particularly service providers, for strong participation this year.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen Pak-UK cooperation in the energy and minerals sectors, aimed at promoting investment, sustainability and institutional strengthening.

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