ISLAMABAD – A delegation of US Congressmen has described their recent visit to Pakistan as “highly successful and significant for the future,” with a particular focus on strengthening cooperation in the mineral sector as part of broader Pakistan-US relations.
Speaking after attending the Pakistan Mineral Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25), Congressman Jack Bergman, who led the delegation, said the relationship between Islamabad and Washington is built on mutual interests across various sectors. “Minerals are a key component in this evolving partnership,” he remarked.
Congressman Thomas Suozzi emphasized the importance of laying a solid foundation for bilateral ties, stating, “We must build Pakistan-US relations on strong foundations.” He added that both nations are working toward enhancing economic security and activity through collaboration.
Congressman Jonathan Jackson, another member of the delegation, praised Pakistan’s demonstration of “faith, unity, and discipline,” adding that there is a golden opportunity to further deepen bilateral relations based on mutual trust and shared history. He voiced optimism about the country’s future, saying, “Pakistan’s future is extremely bright.”
During their visit, the US congressional delegation met several key officials, including Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, whom they praised for the armed forces’ efforts in combating terrorism. Discussions covered regional security, defence cooperation, and the importance of sustained strategic engagement based on mutual respect and shared values, according to a statement from Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The US lawmakers also met with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, where they acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
Talks extended to economic, trade, and investment cooperation, with specific discussions on counterterrorism, security, and border management.
Minister Ahsan Iqbal called for a development-focused framework in bilateral relations, highlighting the importance of collaboration in education, energy, climate change, infrastructure, and IT. He also acknowledged the transformative role of US higher education programs, such as the Fulbright Scholarship.
Iqbal welcomed the revival of congressional exchanges and appreciated the US initiative to hold a symposium on Pakistan at the Library of Congress on April 30.
The visit marks a positive step forward in bilateral engagement, particularly in strategic sectors like minerals, and underscores a shared commitment to fostering long-term cooperation.
