Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced evidence of gold deposits in all five rivers of the province, particularly in Mianwali and Attock, and invited international investors to explore and develop the resources.

Speaking at the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026 (PMIF26) in Islamabad on Thursday, she displayed a sample of gold extracted from river sand and said the provincial government was conducting surveys to determine the actual quantity of available deposits.

She said the rivers contained promising placer gold resources, with particularly strong potential in areas of northern and southern Punjab.

Placer gold is formed when gold separates from rocks through natural erosion and accumulates in river sand and gravel.

Maryam also highlighted the presence of rare earth elements and other valuable minerals in the sand and gravel, saying these resources could offer additional economic opportunities.

Punjab Invites Foreign Investors to Explore Gold

The chief minister invited international mining companies and investors to work with the provincial government to explore and develop its mineral resources.

She said Punjab was taking steps to improve the mining sector and increase its contribution to the provincial economy.

According to Maryam, revenue generated by the Mines and Minerals Department has increased from Rs. 10 billion when she assumed office to Rs. 40 billion over the past two and a half years.

The provincial government aims to attract investment, expand mineral exploration, and convert underground and river-based resources into economic assets.

Pakistan Seeks Investment in Mineral Sector

Pakistan is hosting the two-day Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2026 in Islamabad to attract foreign investment and develop its mineral industry.

The event brings together international mining companies, investors, government officials, policymakers, and industry experts to explore business opportunities in the country’s mineral sector.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir are among the prominent speakers.

The forum is being organised by the federal government in collaboration with the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

Discussions are focused on critical minerals, sustainable mining, investment opportunities, and policies to support long-term development of Pakistan’s mineral resources.