Asad Umar seeks investment in mineral resources

Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar says uniform policy across country will help attract investment

ISLAMABAD: Public and private sectors of Pakistan should come forward and invest in optimum exploitation of mineral resources of the country, said Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar.

He chaired a meeting held to review the work done by Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC) and other allied matters on Thursday. He was presented an overview of the mineral sector, roles and responsibilities of federal and provincial departments, impediments in the way of development and remedial measures.

The meeting was informed that the PMDC board and management had been revamped to turn it into a vibrant institution.

The minister emphasised the need for coordinated efforts for accelerated exploration and development of indigenous mineral resources, especially large-scale mining, value addition and promotion of downstream industries.

He noted that a uniform policy and regulatory framework across the country would be beneficial to attracting investment in the sector.

Umar added that while minerals were a provincial subject, the federal government could help and support the development of the sector by aligning its various policies with the objectives.

He said the federal government would support the federating units in improving the mineral sector’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Published in The Express Tribune, January 3^rd, 2020.

Like Business on Facebook, follow @TribuneBiz on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.