Pakistan's mineral sector has witnessed a significant development as Ivanhoe Mines and Mari Minerals have signed an agreement to explore copper and gold deposits in Balochistan's Chagai district.

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum in Islamabad.

Under the agreement, the two companies will explore copper and gold deposits and assess the potential of mineral resources in Chagai.

Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik attended the signing ceremony.

Besides, the Petroleum Minister held a series of meetings with heads and senior representatives of leading international mining and investment companies to discuss investment opportunities in Pakistan's mineral sector.

He met Barrick Corporation Chairman John Thornton and the company's senior leadership.

John Thornton said he was always pleased to visit Pakistan, reflecting the company's continued engagement with the country.

The Minister also met Chief Executive of British mining and engineering company Weir, Andrew Neilson, who expressed the company's interest in expanding its involvement in Pakistan, not only in the Reko Diq project but also in other mineral development initiatives.

During a separate meeting, Trafigura's Head of Metals and Minerals for the Middle East and North Africa, Ibrahim El Gazzar, conveyed the company's keen interest in Pakistan's zinc and barite projects.

The company also expressed interest in exploring investment opportunities in the LPG, bonded storage and refinery sectors.

The Petroleum Minister also held a meeting with Mustafa Aksoy, Chief Executive of Turkish company Calik Holding, as well as a delegation of Ivanhoe Mines led by Robert Friedland.

Speaking on the occasion, Ali Pervaiz Malik said the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum provides an important platform to connect international investors with investment opportunities in the country.

He said the growing interest of international companies reflects the increasing potential for investment in Pakistan's mineral resources.