ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held a series of high-level meetings with representatives from prominent international energy firms on Friday to explore potential investments within Pakistan’s critical minerals and energy sectors. The discussions mark a strategic effort by the government to bolster Balochistan‘s resource potential and stabilize the national energy landscape.

Engagement with U.S. Energy Representatives

In his initial meeting, the Minister engaged with Gregory Bloom, President of Morgan Hughes Energy, and Ahmad Waleed, CEO of Tejara Capital. The dialogue centered on fostering United States investment within Pakistan. Bloom specifically noted the significant potential for critical minerals development in the region, confirming that Morgan Hughes Energy and Tejara Capital intend to collaborate on mineral projects while simultaneously evaluating opportunities for field optimization in the oil and gas sector to boost existing production capacity.

Ali Pervaiz Malik formally welcomed this interest, emphasizing the government’s steadfast commitment to enhancing indigenous energy output. He stated that the ministry remains dedicated to facilitating responsible international investment through transparent and close cooperation with all relevant industry stakeholders.

Cooperation with Vitol Asia and Infrastructure Projects

During a subsequent meeting, the Petroleum Minister hosted Kieran Gallagher, CEO of Vitol Asia, and his delegation to review ongoing bilateral cooperation in the petroleum sector. Minister Malik commended Vitol for the successful launch of bunkering operations at Gwadar, a development that signifies a critical expansion in regional energy logistics.

The discussion also included a proposal from Vitol to convert High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) into the more environmentally sustainable Very Light Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO). The Minister provided assurances of full governmental support for this transition, which aligns with recent efforts to address inflationary pressures caused by fuel volatility. Furthermore, the participants evaluated new opportunities provided by Pakistan’s recently introduced bonded storage policy. Minister Malik highlighted that ongoing negotiations with major global energy players, including Vitol, are essential for expanding strategic storage capacities and strengthening the nation’s broader energy infrastructure.