ISLAMABAD (HRNW): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has directed the formulation of a comprehensive strategy to align the country’s gemstone mining and processing with international standards. As part of this initiative, the Prime Minister reviewed the progress on establishing three specialized Centers of Excellence aimed at significantly increasing national exports.
While presiding over a high-level meeting focused on the development of the gemstone sector, the Prime Minister emphasized that Pakistan is blessed with immense natural resources. He stated that by effectively utilizing local gemstone reserves, the country can achieve a substantial surge in its export revenue. He further lauded Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar and his team for their dedicated efforts in this sector.
Key Highlights of the Strategic Plan:
-
Centers of Excellence: The government is establishing three centers focused on gemstone cutting, polishing, and jewelry manufacturing.
-
Locations: Land has already been allocated in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, while measures are underway to establish a third center in Islamabad.
-
-
Global Collaboration: Training programs for processing specific gemstones are being launched in collaboration with Sri Lanka and China.
-
Modern Mining Techniques: The Ministry of Petroleum is promoting advanced mining methods to ensure minimal waste. Additionally, 1,000 individuals are being trained in world-class mining techniques through participatory projects involving local communities.
-
International Exhibition: Plans are in place to host Pakistan’s first International Gemstone Exhibition in July 2026 to showcase the country’s potential to global buyers.
-
Directives for Planning: The Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Planning to immediately prepare and present a roadmap to enhance the export of processed gemstones while ensuring total transparency in the establishment of the new centers.
The meeting concluded with the Prime Minister reiterating that the gemstone sector must become a vital pillar of the national export economy through integrated and practical measures. The session was attended by federal ministers, senior officials, and representatives from relevant departments.
Appeal for Support:
Support HRNW, the world’s No. 1 human rights news portal, in its mission to be a timely voice for human rights and public issues. Your contribution enables us to continue our journey of promoting truth and being a voice for the oppressed.
To support us, please click this link: https://www.hrnww.com/?page_id=1083
