Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have unveiled significant collaborations in the mining sector, focusing on copper and gold assets. This announcement was made during the Future Minerals Forum 2025 in Riyadh, running from January 14 to 16.
Pakistan’s Minister for Petroleum, Musadik Malik, emphasized the commitment to strengthen trade and investment ties with Saudi Arabia. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s leadership reaffirming a $5 billion investment package for Pakistan.
Expanding Collaboration Beyond Mining
The two nations are also exploring partnerships in energy, food security, and industrial sectors. This aligns with Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties with Saudi Arabia. Earlier this year, the Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to expedite a $5 billion investment package for Pakistan.
Minister Malik expressed optimism about 2025, calling it a year of significant announcements between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. He stated, “We are in advanced stages of conversations about a very large asset. Both sides have completed commercial, legal, and financial due diligence.”
Focus on Copper and Gold Mining Assets
The collaboration will primarily focus on copper and gold mining assets. Malik emphasized, “We are very hopeful about the mining assets, particularly copper and gold. Valuation frameworks are in place, and both teams are empowered to negotiate.”
Malik highlighted ongoing industrial and energy projects, including $2 billion worth of commercial MoUs between Saudi and Pakistani companies. He added, “Many MoUs have already turned into contracts, and trade has begun. We are also discussing large energy projects, such as refineries.”
Ministerial Roundtable Highlights Future-Focused Discussions
The Future Minerals Forum’s ministerial roundtable saw participation from 89 countries. Malik noted, “Everyone is focused on the future. We are not just discussing current assets but also how these assets will create and capture value sustainably.”
The discussions also emphasized sustainable mining, community development, and the circular economy. Malik explained, “Resource-rich countries are positioning themselves to participate in downstream activities and navigate emerging industrial policies.”
A Vision for a Carbon-Neutral Future
Malik concluded by highlighting the forum’s ultimate goal: ensuring a sustainable, carbon-neutral world. He stated, “The end game is to create a sustainable world where mining contributes to global carbon neutrality.”
This collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening Saudi-Pakistan relations while promoting sustainable development in the mining sector.