ISLAMABAD (MNN); Pakistan and the United States have agreed to enhance cooperation in counterterrorism efforts and promote investment in the mining, minerals and energy sectors, the Ministry of Interior said on Thursday.
The understanding was reached during a key meeting attended by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs John Mark Pomeroy, and US Ambassador Natalie Baker.
According to the ministry, the US assistant secretary condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Islamabad and Quetta and conveyed condolences to the victims.
Discussions focused on Pakistan-US bilateral relations, the regional security environment, and measures to strengthen collaboration in counterterrorism, particularly in internal security.
Both sides also agreed to encourage investment and partnerships in mining, minerals and energy, aiming to boost economic cooperation.
Minister Naqvi said that international collaboration is vital to effectively combat terrorism and described Pakistan’s relationship with the United States as important in this regard. He welcomed American investment in key sectors and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to global partnerships for eliminating terrorism and promoting economic growth.
He assured that US investors would be provided a secure and business-friendly environment in Pakistan.
Assistant Secretary Pomeroy said Washington places significant importance on its ties with Islamabad. The federal secretary for interior and senior officials also attended the meeting.
Besides the United States, China and Saudi Arabia have also shown interest in investing in Pakistan’s mining and minerals sector, which officials say could raise exports by billions of dollars annually.
Last month, Chinese Minister Counsellor Yang Guangyuan met Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan in Islamabad to discuss expanding cooperation in exports, manufacturing, mining and industrial development.
Both sides highlighted the need to unlock Pakistan’s mineral and gemstone potential through effective policies and timely implementation. The SAPM noted that the prime minister has directed authorities to extend full support and incentives to Chinese investors.
Earlier, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia also agreed to strengthen cooperation in the mining and minerals sector, focusing on joint investment opportunities and collaboration across the mineral value chain.
