By SKM
September 29, 2025
ISLAMABAD: In a move that strengthens Pakistan’s position on the global mining map, Finnish mineral technology leader Metso has confirmed its role as a key equipment supplier for the Reko Diq copper-gold project, while also announcing its commitment to invest in training Pakistan’s local mining workforce.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting held here on Monday between Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and a visiting Finnish delegation.
The delegation included H.E. Mr. Hannu Ripatti, Ambassador of Finland to Pakistan; Ms. Piia Karhu, President of Minerals at Metso; and Mr. Willie Eerola, Honorary Consul General of Pakistan to Finland. Discussions centered on Pakistan’s growing minerals sector, recent regulatory reforms, and opportunities for meaningful collaboration between the two countries.
Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik described the current phase of Pakistan’s minerals sector as a “transformational moment,” shaped by decisive policy shifts, improved governance, and globally significant ventures like Reko Diq. He highlighted the government’s commitment to building a modern, responsible, and competitive mining industry.
“Pakistan is decisively moving from primitive extraction methods to a more sophisticated, mechanized, and globally responsible mining model,” he said. “We have updated the regulatory framework, harmonized policies, and are providing a stable environment that welcomes foreign investment.”
He referred to Reko Diq as the “torch bearer” of Pakistan’s mineral development strategy and assured the Finnish delegation that the project would serve as a benchmark for future mining investments in the country. He reiterated that international partners would find Pakistan ready for long-term, mutually beneficial collaboration.
Metso’s President of Minerals, Ms. Piia Karhu, praised the direction taken by the Government of Pakistan and recognized the proactive role of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in creating an investor-friendly ecosystem. She confirmed that Metso has become a strategic supplier of equipment and services for the Reko Diq project, with plans to expand its role in Pakistan’s minerals sector further.
“We believe in Pakistan’s mineral potential,” Karhu said. “Metso is committed not just to delivering advanced technology, but also to building long-term partnerships. We plan to invest in training the local human resource, which aligns with Pakistan’s broader goals for sustainable development and long-term capacity building.”
Minister Malik welcomed this dual commitment from Metso—in both equipment supply and human resource development—calling it a model for responsible foreign collaboration. “Equipping our people with modern mining skills will not only bring prosperity to Pakistan, but also contribute to the global demand for a skilled mining workforce,” he said.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to deepen cooperation between Pakistani and Finnish stakeholders, especially in areas such as technology transfer, skill development, and environmentally responsible mineral extraction. The partnership is expected to unlock Pakistan’s vast mineral reserves by leveraging Finnish expertise in sustainable mining practices. Ends
