Canada seeks mineral ties after Reko Diq success

High commissioner cites PMIF, PDAC 2026 participation, energy sector support

ISLAMABAD:

Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with the High Commissioner of Canada to Pakistan, Tarik Ali Khan, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in the minerals and energy sectors.

According to an official statement issued on Wednesday, the high commissioner said the success of Barrick Gold at Reko Diq was a strong example on which Pakistan-Canada mineral cooperation could be further built. He noted that Canada was actively working to bring more Canadian companies to the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum (PMIF). Referring to the evolving global landscape, he said that in a changing multilateral world order based on networks, shared values and common interests, there was openness and willingness to engage with Pakistan.

The high commissioner also conveyed that the Ministry of Natural Resources Canada was ready to support mineral sector cooperation with Pakistan. Sharing his personal experience, he said he had visited the Reko Diq site and observed community uplift initiatives, including the development of schools, hospitals and water purification projects.

The petroleum minister said Reko Diq had secured international financing, making it one of the most significant funding rounds for Pakistan. He added that the government was committed to ensuring high standards of labour safety and Environmental, Social and Governance compliance, and that such projects were being developed for the long-term benefit of the country. The Canadian high commissioner extended an invitation to Pakistan to participate in PDAC 2026, the world's leading mineral exploration and mining convention, scheduled for March 2026 in Canada. He said the event would provide a platform to showcase Pakistan's mineral potential to global investors and help deepen bilateral cooperation in the sector.

He also said Canada was working to provide technical assistance in the energy sector. Welcoming the initiative, the petroleum minister said support in intellectual capital and technical expertise would help strengthen Pakistan's systems and enhance investor confidence, particularly among international mining companies.

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