Islamabad, November 13,2026: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed confidence that Pakistan will emerge as one of the world’s major economies before 2050, citing a Goldman Sachs projection that the country could become the world’s sixth-largest economy by 2075.
Addressing the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026 on Friday, the prime minister said Pakistan’s economy was embarking on a journey of growth and transformation with renewed confidence.
He said the country was determined to end the export of valuable mineral resources in raw form and instead utilise them to support domestic industries and promote value addition.
“The day is not far when Pakistan will utilise its mineral resources for the country’s downstream industries,” he said, adding that the country did not want to remain limited to extracting raw minerals and exporting them abroad.
Referring to the Reko Diq project, Shehbaz Sharif described it as one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper and gold deposits. He said the project, which had remained stalled for two decades, was now moving towards practical completion and the operational phase.
The prime minister said the establishment of the National Minerals Data Centre and digitisation of geological records would ensure the availability of authentic information to facilitate investment and development in the sector.
He said the federal and provincial governments would work together to unlock the potential of Pakistan’s mineral resources and promote investment.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the business community, he said all necessary facilities would be provided to investors.
“The protection of investors is our protection, and their security is our security,” he said, adding that the government would work as one team to safeguard investors’ interests.
The prime minister also emphasised that the cooperation and trust of local communities were essential for the success of mineral projects. He said protecting manpower, assets and supply routes was the government’s responsibility.
He further stressed the need for reliable infrastructure, particularly electricity, water and communication facilities, to attract investment in the mining sector.
Shehbaz Sharif assured investors that he would personally ensure the swiftest possible movement of files pending in connection with investment proposals.
Highlighting the potential of the younger generation, he described Pakistan’s youth as an invaluable national asset, saying they were educated, talented and determined.
CDF vows to ensure security of mining ecosystem
Speaking at the forum, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir said Pakistan aimed to establish itself as a competitive destination for long-term mineral investment.
He said all possible measures were being taken to ensure the security of the entire mining ecosystem, including mines, miners, investments, industries, projects and associated personnel.
Field Marshal Munir said harnessing Pakistan’s mineral wealth was a collective national objective, emphasising that the country’s ambition extended beyond exporting raw materials to developing the entire value chain, including refining and manufacturing.
“Pakistan seeks to foster long-term partnerships that create sustainable economic value for the country and its partners,” he said.
He stressed that mineral development must also benefit local communities, adding that people living in resource-rich areas should see tangible improvements in their living standards.
The army chief highlighted the hardworking, courageous and determined nature of the Pakistani people, saying they possessed immense potential to turn national aspirations into reality.
He observed that while the country’s natural resources offered significant opportunities, its people remained the real source of strength and determination needed to achieve results.
“Pakistan must move from potential to productivity, from promises to action, and from raw exports to value-added growth,” he said.
