ISLAMABAD: Indonesia has expressed interest in investing in Pakistan’s largely untapped mineral sector, with state-owned energy firm Pertamina emerging as a potential partner for exploration and mining cooperation, Pakistan’s Information Ministry said this week.
The interest comes as Pakistan pushes mining as a driver of long-term economic growth after years of underinvestment and stalled projects. Resource-rich Asian economies are also increasingly seeking overseas assets to secure critical minerals and diversify investments.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik met Indonesian Ambassador Chandra Warsenanto Sukotjo on Thursday to discuss cooperation, with a focus on minerals and exploration, the ministry said.
The ambassador said Pertamina has extensive experience in exploration and could explore joint activities with Pakistan. Malik welcomed Indonesia’s interest and assured full government support. He highlighted Pakistan’s vast mineral potential and encouraged Indonesian firms to partner with local companies.
Malik also invited Indonesia to take part in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum (PMIF) 2026. He said the upcoming forum would be larger than previous editions and aimed at attracting a broader pool of international investors.
Both sides agreed to maintain engagement and identify concrete opportunities in minerals, exploration, and energy. Officials described the talks as part of efforts to strengthen Pakistan–Indonesia economic ties beyond traditional diplomatic relations.
Pakistan holds significant reserves of copper, gold, coal, and other minerals across Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Much of the sector remains underdeveloped due to legal disputes, infrastructure gaps, and limited foreign investment.
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In recent years, Islamabad has moved to resolve long-running disputes, host international mining forums, and attract partners from Asia, the Gulf, and North America. The government has placed special emphasis on large projects such as the Reko Diq copper-gold mine, while also promoting smaller joint ventures with foreign firms and state-owned compa
