Tectono–Magmatic Evolution of the Neo–Tethys Belt in Pakistan and Related Mineralization of Major Metal Mineral Deposits in Pakistan

Pakistan is located in the convergent zone of the India, Eurasian and Arabian plates, an important part of the Tethys tectonic domain. It is an excellent natural laboratory for the study of deep earth system interactions and mineralization effects, as both continental collision and oceanic subduction occur in Pakistan. However, the study of tectonic evolution and mineralization in Pakistan is still not systematic, and the background and mechanism of formation of some large and super–large ore deposits in Pakistan are still unclear. The authors and collaborating team have conducted in–depth anatomical and comparative studies on different types of dominant mineral deposits in Pakistan. In this paper, the resent research progress are summarized systematically. Focusing on the key scientific issues of tectonic-magmatic evolution and mineralization response in the Neo–Tethys belt, we have analyzed the tectonic setting of the formation of major metal mineralization types such as copper, chromite, lead-zinc and carbonatite–related REE deposits and the coupling relationship with major regional geological events. The study of regional mineralization regularities in Pakistan will provide a basis for resource potential analysis and mineral exploration both within and outside the country.