(Islamabad, December 19, 2025) — Pakistan and Australia are seeking to expand trade and cooperation, with a particular focus on bolstering economic ties in the mining and minerals sector, officials said Tuesday. The developments come as Pakistan also continues to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza and condemn illegal Israeli settlement activity at the United Nations.
Pakistan is working to strengthen its economic and diplomatic relationships with Australia while simultaneously addressing international concerns regarding the conflict in the Middle East.
- Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Australian interest in the country’s mineral resources, particularly the Reko Diq mining project.
- Both nations are committed to increased trade and collaboration, including joint efforts to combat terrorism.
- Pakistan condemned a recent attack in Sydney and urged the international community to enforce a truce in Gaza.
- At the UN, Pakistan has called for an end to illegal Israeli settlement activity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his appreciation for Australia’s interest in Pakistan’s mines and minerals, specifically highlighting the potential of the Reko Diq project, according to a statement released by Independent News Pakistan. The Reko Diq mine, located in Balochistan province, is a large copper and gold deposit that has been the subject of international investment and development discussions.
The push for stronger economic ties comes alongside a commitment to enhanced cooperation on security matters. According to The Express Tribune, Pakistan and Australia have agreed to boost trade, cooperation, and collective action against terrorism. This collaboration reflects a shared interest in regional stability and security.
International Advocacy
Pakistan has also been actively engaged in international diplomacy, addressing pressing global issues at the United Nations. Pakistan Today reported that the country strongly condemned the recent attack in Sydney and urged the enforcement of a truce in Gaza. The call for a ceasefire reflects Pakistan’s longstanding position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Furthermore, Pakistan has demanded that Israel end its illegal settlement activity, as reported by Daily Times. This stance aligns with international law and UN resolutions that consider Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories to be illegal.
Why It Matters
The strengthening of ties with Australia represents a strategic move for Pakistan to diversify its economic partnerships and attract foreign investment, particularly in its resource-rich regions. Australia’s interest in Pakistan’s mining sector could provide a significant boost to the country’s economy and create new employment opportunities. Simultaneously, Pakistan’s continued advocacy on the international stage, particularly regarding the Gaza conflict and Israeli settlements, underscores its commitment to upholding international law and promoting a just resolution to the Palestinian issue. This dual focus on economic development and diplomatic engagement positions Pakistan as a proactive player in both regional and global affairs.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by Radio Pakistan, The Express Tribune, Pakistan Today, Daily Times, and Independent News Pakistan and added independent analysis and context.
