From talks to trade: Pakistan pitches minerals and oil in White House meeting

Jonathan R. Miles
Updated: September 26, 2025

Introduction

WASHINGTON — Pakistan used a high-level White House visit to press an economic agenda alongside security ties. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir met President Donald Trump in closed discussions that sources say included trade, energy and mineral development — areas Islamabad hopes will bring new investment and jobs.

Deal focus — why minerals and energy matter

Multiple news outlets report Pakistan presented investment opportunities in minerals and oil during recent diplomatic rounds. Coverage cites MoUs and expressions of interest from U.S. firms to develop Pakistan’s mineral deposits, including strategic materials used in clean energy and technology. For Pakistan — weighed down by large external debt — foreign investment in resource sectors is an urgent priority.

What officials say (and what’s confirmed)

From talks to trade: Pakistan pitches minerals and oil in White House meeting

Pakistan’s government confirmed the White House meeting and posted official images. Independent reports suggest Islamabad highlighted specific trade proposals and potential investment projects to Washington representatives.

Some outlets reported memorandums and investor interest (figures cited vary by report); where exact financial commitments are reported by local media, readers should treat those items as initial announcements pending formal contracts.

Why U.S. interest is plausible now

Washington’s recent pivot on regional energy and supply chains makes resource deals attractive. The U.S. has signaled interest in diversifying critical-minerals supply, and Pakistan’s geological resources could be part of that strategy — if environmental and due-diligence hurdles are addressed. Observers note any U.S. investment would also come with strict regulatory and oversight conditions.

Risks and political context

Large deals are politically sensitive: Pakistan balances ties with China (CPEC) and must manage domestic concerns on resource extraction and community impact.

Separate stories during the visit pointed to tariff and trade tensions in the region; any big U.S. commercial role in Pakistan could create diplomatic ripples. Reported deal sizes and partners vary by outlet, so verification from formal White House or Islamabad releases is still needed.

What to watch next

  • Official MoUs or contracts: Look for announcements from the White House, Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce, or named companies.
  • Regulatory steps: Environmental reviews, local approvals and financing details will indicate whether projects are viable.
  • Regional reaction: China and neighboring economies will watch any U.S.–Pakistan economic pivot closely.

Top sources: IndiaTimes coverage of mineral deal reporting; Associated Press background on the White House meeting; Govt of Pakistan social post. Note: local reporting cites preliminary MOUs and investor interest — treat monetary claims as provisional until confirmed by official releases.

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