Islamabad, 27-Jan-2026 (PPI): Pakistan has proposed a formal intergovernmental agreement with Australia to cement collaboration in the mining sector, a move prompted by increasing interest from Australian companies in the nation's mineral wealth.

The suggestion was put forward by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik during a meeting with Australian High Commissioner Timothy Kane in the capital today, where both sides committed to bolstering bilateral ties in the extractive industries.

High Commissioner Kane informed the minister that Australian firms are already engaged in the Reko Diq project and noted that additional companies are eager to participate.

The Australian envoy affirmed that his High Commission is actively facilitating the involvement of these businesses in the forthcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum.

Discussions also covered the gemstones domain, with Mr Kane highlighting available opportunities for providing technical assistance and sharing expertise with Pakistan.