Ali Pervaiz Malik met with Alexandra Berg in Islamabad to discuss expanding cooperation between Pakistan and Sweden in the mining sector.
During the meeting, both sides agreed to strengthen collaboration, particularly in the development of Pakistan’s mineral resources. The Swedish ambassador highlighted that the two countries are already working together in several areas, including transport, telecommunications, packaging, and industry.
She noted that Swedish companies are also contributing to the Reko Diq project by providing products, services, and connectivity solutions. The project is considered one of the largest copper and gold mining developments in the region.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the Pakistani government is committed to working with international partners to develop the country’s mineral sector. He added that despite various challenges, work on the Reko Diq project has continued smoothly without any delay.
The minister said the steady progress of the project reflects the professionalism and dedication of all the companies and partners involved.
During the meeting, the federal minister also invited Swedish mining companies to take part in the Pakistan Mineral Investment Forum. The Swedish ambassador welcomed the invitation and expressed hope that more Swedish companies would participate in the forum this year, further strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.
Moreover, a year ago Sweden has officially resumed its visa services in Islamabad, allowing Pakistani nationals to apply for Schengen visas to Sweden starting July 7, 2025. The move ends a suspension that lasted over a year and had disrupted travel, business, and academic plans for many.
Sweden had closed its embassy in Islamabad in April 2023, citing security concerns, and halted all visa and migration services. The closure had been indefinite, with the embassy unable to receive applications or return documents. A notice on the embassy website at the time emphasized that the decision was taken to prioritize the safety of applicants and staff.
The embassy reopened quietly in April 2025, but visa services remained suspended until now. The breakthrough came following high-level bilateral consultations held in Stockholm on July 2, 2025. Pakistan’s delegation was led by the Additional Foreign Secretary for Europe, while Sweden was represented by the Director General for Global Affairs.
During the meeting, Sweden officially announced the restoration of visa services for Pakistani nationals. The Pakistani Foreign Office welcomed the move, calling it a “positive development” and a sign of deepening bilateral ties and renewed trust between the two nations.
Under the new arrangement, Pakistani citizens can now apply for short-stay Schengen visas for travel to Sweden, with stays of up to 90 days permitted. The decision is expected to facilitate tourism, education, professional exchanges, and family visits.
