Hungarian energy giant MOL has made three new natural gas discoveries in Pakistan’s Tal Block, and has begun developing extraction strategies for the sites, Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced during a joint press conference with his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, in Islamabad.
According to the Ministry’s statement, Szijjártó described MOL’s presence in Pakistan as the most significant success story of Hungarian–Pakistani cooperation. The company has operated in the country for 25 years, investing over 400 million dollars and employing around 900 people locally.
MOL currently ranks second in Pakistan for crude oil and LPG extraction, and fifth in natural gas production. The newly discovered gas fields could enhance this standing, further strengthening Pakistan’s energy supply and contributing to the growth of both the local energy sector and the Hungarian economy.
Szijjártó emphasized that MOL’s success abroad benefits Hungary’s national economy, as strong international performance by its largest companies brings home valuable returns.
‘In short, we’re aiming for broader and stronger cooperation between Hungary and Pakistan’
He also highlighted the importance of deepening bilateral economic ties, noting that Hungary and Pakistan have always maintained a respectful relationship, free from political interference or disputes. This, he said, creates a favourable environment for business cooperation.
Seventeen Hungarian business leaders accompanied the minister on his visit, representing sectors where Hungary is globally competitive, such as water management.
Szijjártó welcomed the doubling of bilateral trade volume by April this year and celebrated a record-breaking level of Pakistani imports in 2024. To support future growth, both nations are preparing agreements on investment protection and civil aviation, with hopes for direct air links between the two countries.
‘In short, we’re aiming for broader and stronger cooperation between Hungary and Pakistan,’ the minister concluded.
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