Pakistan, U.S. explore deeper cooperation in critical minerals

October 31, 2025 (MLN):  Pakistan and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in the minerals and mining sector, with a focus on building secure, transparent, and sustainable supply chains.

The discussion took place during a meeting between the Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue and a U.S. delegation led by Mr. Robert Louis Strayer II, President of the Critical Minerals Forum (USA), accompanied by Ms. Natalie Baker, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States.

Both sides explored avenues for cooperation in critical minerals, investment facilitation, and strengthening supply-chain security, said a press release issued.

The finance minister welcomed the delegation and highlighted Pakistan’s improving economic fundamentals, emphasizing ongoing governance and fiscal reforms.

“Our priority is fundamental fiscal hygiene building the discipline where capital flows in, remains invested, and is secured through sound policies,” the Minister said, noting positive signals from international rating agencies reflecting renewed investor confidence.

He outlined key structural reforms, including power sector restructuring, tax administration improvements, and the creation of a dedicated Tax Policy Unit within the Ministry of Finance to enhance governance.

The Minister also mentioned that 24 state-owned enterprises have been referred to the Privatization Commission to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Highlighting Pakistan’s strengthened geopolitical position, the finance minister said, “Pakistan today stands at a constructive intersection of global relationships—renewed momentum in Pakistan-U.S. ties, time-tested relations with China, and forward-looking cooperation with Saudi Arabia.”

He described Pakistan’s mineral and mining potential as a transformational opportunity to shift toward export-led growth and reduce future reliance on multilateral support.

Mr. Strayer briefed the Minister on the Critical Minerals Forum’s role in supporting transparent mineral supply chains for U.S. industry, particularly in emerging markets. He noted that the Forum focuses on rare and niche metals such as copper and antimony and aims to de-risk investments through strong governance, technology transfer, and intellectual property protection.

The U.S. delegation commended Pakistan’s science and engineering talent, calling it a key strength for future development in the critical minerals sector.

 The Chargé d’Affaires reaffirmed the U.S. Embassy’s support for promoting American commercial engagement in Pakistan.

In response, the finance minister welcomed structured proposals from the Forum, assuring that Pakistan is working on legal and regulatory reforms to attract responsible investment. He noted recent discussions with global financial institutions, including DFC and IFC, that have shown interest in expanding their footprint in Pakistan.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing their commitment to continued engagement and collaboration in the minerals sector, in line with Pakistan’s economic reform agenda and shared goals for sustainable development.

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