US envoy calls it ‘the right time’ for American companies to explore Pakistan’s vast mineral potential

Pakistan has invited American companies to explore investment opportunities in its mineral-rich regions, emphasizing joint ventures and public-private partnerships in a sector seen as key to the country’s economic future.

Speaking at a high-level webinar titled “Opportunities in Pakistan’s Mining Sector – Unlocking Mineral Potential”, US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker said, “With one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper and gold deposits at Reko Diq and a strong commitment to economic reforms, this is the right time for US investors to explore and engage.”

The virtual event — jointly hosted by Pakistan’s Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) and the US Embassy — was held at the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) head office in Islamabad. It brought together key government officials, executives from Pakistan’s leading mineral and energy companies, and representatives from the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). Several US energy experts and business representatives also joined online.

Federal Minister for Energy Ali Pervaiz Malik highlighted Pakistan’s vast and largely untapped mineral wealth. “From gold and copper to rare earth elements and other critical minerals vital for clean energy, Pakistan is well-positioned to play a central role in the global green transition,” he said.

Malik pointed to major discoveries in the Chaghi district of Balochistan and Waziristan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while also stressing the international importance of the Reko Diq copper-gold project. He said the government is committed to removing barriers for investors and improving the ease of doing business.

“We view mineral development as an engine of economic growth and climate resilience. With support from the SIFC and leadership from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir, Pakistan is serious about unlocking its mineral potential,” he added.

The minister also referenced the successful Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25), held earlier this year, which drew more than 5,000 participants and marked a turning point in how Pakistan is positioning itself in the global minerals economy.

Natalie Baker, representing the US government, reaffirmed America’s longstanding economic partnership with Pakistan. “We see immense promise in Pakistan’s mineral sector. Our goal is to help build meaningful, mutually beneficial partnerships that create jobs and drive sustainable development,” she said.

Baker praised Pakistan’s recent policy efforts, particularly the ongoing work on the National Minerals Harmonisation Framework, which aims to simplify investment procedures and align regulations across federal and provincial levels. She also acknowledged reforms like the digitization of geological data and the upgrade of the Geological Survey of Pakistan to increase transparency and improve investor access.

A Q&A session was held during the event where American investors had the opportunity to raise questions and get clarity on investment-related concerns. Pakistani officials assured participants of full facilitation and support.

In her closing remarks, Baker emphasized the US government’s commitment to deepening economic ties and supporting Pakistan’s development goals. “We believe in Pakistan’s potential and are confident that our partnership in the mining sector can contribute to inclusive and sustainable growth,” she said.