19/08/2026
Strengthening Mineral Exploration Through GIS, Remote Sensing & Industry–Academia Linkages
We are pleased to share the participation of Mr. Liaqat Ali Sultan, CEO CGC-HEE and Chairman EEPL, along with Mr. Syed Nohman Gilani, Lead Geologist & GM, CGC-HEE, in the International Workshop on “GIS and Remote Sensing for Mineral Mapping: Understanding of Minerals and Environmental Strategies.”
Representing FPCCI on behalf of the Central Standing Committee on Industry–Academia Linkages and Mines & Minerals, the delegation contributed valuable industrial perspectives as part of FPCCI’s leadership, including the roles of Convener, Deputy Convener, and Resource Person.
During the workshop, Mr. Liaqat Ali Sultan shared his industrial expertise and highlighted the strategic importance of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) and Pakistan’s broader mineral potential. He emphasized that Pakistan possesses significant opportunities in critical minerals, but unlocking this potential requires a stronger connection between modern geospatial technologies, geological knowledge, research institutions, and industry. He stressed the need for systematic mineral mapping, data-driven exploration, technology adoption, investment facilitation, and development of a skilled workforce to transform geological potential into sustainable industrial value.
Mr. Sultan also highlighted the importance of moving beyond conventional exploration approaches by integrating GIS, remote sensing, digital geological databases, advanced exploration techniques, and environmental planning. He emphasized that responsible mineral development must balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, community interests, transparency, and long-term resource management.
Mr. Syed Nohman Gilani highlighted key geological and exploration challenges faced by the mineral sector, particularly the gaps between geological data, exploration practices, research institutions, and industrial requirements. He emphasized the need for better geological understanding, targeted exploration, improved access to reliable mineral data, capacity building, and practical collaboration between academia, government, and industry.
The discussions reinforced a clear message: Pakistan’s mineral future depends not only on the availability of resources, but on our ability to map, understand, explore, process, and responsibly develop them through technology, expertise, and strong industry–academia collaboration.
The participation reflects FPCCI’s continued commitment to promoting industrial development, mineral-sector innovation, critical mineral exploration, REE potential, and stronger Industry–Academia–Government linkages for sustainable economic growth.