Pakistan and the United States have agreed to intensify collaboration in counterterrorism and enhance investment in the mining, minerals, and energy sectors. The agreement was announced following a high-level meeting attended by Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, and US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs John Mark Pomeroy. US Ambassador Natalie Baker was also present.
During the meeting, the US assistant secretary condemned recent terrorist attacks in Islamabad and Quetta and expressed condolences to the victims. Both countries reviewed bilateral relations and regional security, with a focus on strengthening internal security and counterterrorism measures.
Investment Opportunities in Mining, Minerals, and Energy
Both sides committed to promoting investment and partnerships in Pakistan’s mining, minerals, and energy sectors. Minister Naqvi highlighted the importance of global cooperation in combating terrorism and described the US partnership as essential. He assured that American investors would be provided with the safest possible environment in Pakistan.
US Assistant Secretary Pomeroy reiterated that the United States values its relationship with Pakistan and considers it a key partner in promoting regional security and economic development. Senior officials from Pakistan’s interior ministry also attended the meeting.
China and Saudi Arabia Show Interest in Pakistan’s Mineral Sector
Apart from the US, China and Saudi Arabia have expressed significant interest in Pakistan’s mining and minerals sector. Experts say these investments could boost Pakistan’s exports by billions of dollars annually. In January, Chinese Minister Counsellor Yang Guangyuan met with Pakistan’s Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, in Islamabad.
During the meeting, both delegations discussed opportunities for expanding bilateral economic cooperation, with a focus on exports, manufacturing, mining, minerals, and national industrial policies. Pakistan emphasized that investment in gemstones and minerals is a key government priority. Authorities noted that mineral and gemstone exports have the potential to generate substantial foreign revenue for the country.
Saudi Arabia-Pakistan Cooperation in Mining Sector
Earlier, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in the mining and minerals sector. Both countries emphasized exploring joint investment opportunities and strengthening collaboration across the mineral value chain. Officials also highlighted the importance of timely implementation of policies to maximize the sector’s economic potential.
Outlook for Pakistan’s Economic Growth
The enhanced engagement with the United States, China, and Saudi Arabia signals a positive outlook for Pakistan’s economy. Strategic investments in mining, minerals, and energy sectors are expected to create jobs, boost exports, and strengthen regional partnerships.
Pakistan’s government continues to provide incentives and facilities to attract foreign investment and strengthen economic cooperation with international partners. These measures aim to combine security, economic growth, and regional collaboration for sustainable development.
