Pakistan-China Strengthen Ties; Focus on Mining and Energy Cooperation Ahead of PMIF 2026

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reaffirmed the strong and enduring Pakistan-China relationship during a high-level meeting at the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad on Wednesday. The discussions focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in the energy and mineral sectors, underscoring the shared commitment to regional stability and economic growth.

Ali Pervaiz Malik formally invited China to participate in the upcoming Pakistan Mineral Investment Forum (PMIF) 2026, highlighting the mining sector as a priority area with significant potential for deepening economic collaboration. The Minister emphasized that Pakistan sees the sector as a key driver for investment, job creation, and long-term strategic partnerships.

Ambassador Jiang Zaidong welcomed the invitation, assuring active Chinese participation in the forum. “We will encourage the heads of our relevant institutions to participate in the Pakistan Mineral Investment Forum,” he said, stressing that mining remains a vital area for China-Pakistan cooperation. The Ambassador noted the strong presence of Chinese companies such as MCC and CNOC in Pakistan’s petroleum and mineral sectors and expressed China’s interest in expanding its investments in key projects like the Saindak and Siadak mining operations.

The Petroleum Minister expressed Pakistan’s gratitude for China’s continued support during challenging economic times, reiterating Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to China’s sovereignty and regional stability. Ambassador Jiang also praised Pakistan’s ongoing reform agenda, calling it a positive step toward sustainable economic development.

Both sides emphasized their shared goal of transforming the all-weather strategic partnership into increased investment, technological collaboration, and mutual prosperity, particularly in the energy and mining sectors. The meeting reinforced the vision of stronger China-Pakistan ties, promoting economic growth and long-term stability in the region.