LAHORE (special crosspondent) – The National School of Public Policy (NSPP) on Monday inaugurated its two-day fourth public policy conference titled “Rare Earth Minerals in Pakistan: Opportunities and Challenges,” convening a diverse group of policymakers, geologists, academics, researchers, and industry specialists. The forum serves as a platform to deliberate on strategic frameworks for unlocking the country’s mineral potential through sustainable extraction, investment, and comprehensive policy reforms.

Collaborative Approach to Mineral Policy

Organised by the NSPP in partnership with Beaconhouse National University (BNU) and the Burki Institute of Public Policy (BIPP), the event emphasizes the critical need for inter-institutional collaboration. Discussions are centered on navigating global market trends, integrating technological innovations, and establishing sustainable mining practices to bolster the nation’s economic landscape.

Leveraging Natural Wealth for Economic Growth

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Prof Ahsan Iqbal, addressing the assembly via video link, underscored that Pakistan’s strategic mineral reserves could serve as a primary catalyst for industrial development if supported by modern technology and value-added processing. The minister emphasized that transitioning from raw material exports to manufacturing high-tech components is essential for maximizing economic returns. He noted that the government is actively working to create employment opportunities and reduce import reliance through better regulatory mechanisms and geological data collection.

Institutional Initiatives and Future Vision

Highlighting the role of the Mineral Investment Facilitation Authority (MIFA), Ahsan Iqbal detailed ongoing projects, including the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s efforts in Gilgit-Baltistan and new testing facilities in Skardu. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the “Uraan Pakistan” vision, aiming to reach a one-trillion-dollar economy by 2035. Earlier, NSPP Rector Farhan Aziz Khawaja and Dean of the National Institute of Public Policy (NIPP) Dr Naveed Elahi emphasized the institution’s commitment to building capacity for civil servants to manage such complex national challenges. The event concluded its first day with technical sessions focused on the governance of minerals and the environmental implications of resource extraction.