Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has officially opened the Geoscience Advanced Research Laboratories in Islamabad, marking a significant milestone for Pakistan’s mineral sector. The inauguration ceremony took place on October 17, 2025, and was graced by the presence of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, various federal ministers, and international dignitaries, highlighting the project’s strategic importance.
Originally set up in 1991, this facility has undergone substantial upgrades to meet international standards. Nestled in Chak Shahzad, the laboratory complex has proudly achieved ISO/IEC 17025 certification, which attests to its technical expertise in testing and calibration. This certification means the lab can now deliver analytical data that meets global acceptance, which is crucial for estimating mineral reserves in accordance with frameworks like JORC and NI 43-101.
Officials from the Geological Survey of Pakistan have celebrated this upgrade as a vital step toward attracting foreign investment and boosting exploration in the country’s mineral-rich areas. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif highlighted that this modernization is in line with the government’s dedication to scientific innovation and sustainable development.
With these upgraded labs, there’s great optimism about unlocking Pakistan’s untapped mineral resources, providing mining companies with the reliable data and credibility they need to operate at international standards.
