Eric Meyer, the Senior Bureau Official for the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, visited Islamabad on April 8 and 9, to pursue U.S. interests in Pakistan’s critical minerals sector. His visit aimed to expand opportunities for American businesses in Pakistan, strengthen economic ties, and emphasize the necessity of ongoing collaboration on counterterrorism.
Mr. Meyer, addressing the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, expressed U.S. support for investment in Pakistan’s minerals sector. “Critical minerals are the raw materials necessary for our most advanced technologies,” he stated. “President Trump has made it clear that securing diverse and reliable sources of these materials is a strategic priority. Pakistan’s vast mineral potential—if responsibly and transparently developed—can benefit both our countries.” The United States is actively working with international partners and Pakistani entities to explore investment opportunities, technical cooperation, and responsible resource management in this sector.
Additionally, Mr. Meyer engaged with key Pakistani officials, such as Prime Minister Sharif, Chief of Army Staff Munir, Minister of Interior Naqvi, and Minister of Petroleum Malik. Discussions focused on expanding opportunities for American businesses, promoting stronger economic ties, and reinforcing the critical importance of ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between the nations.
Mr. Meyer also took the opportunity to interact with Pakistani foreign policy leaders, members of the American chambers of commerce, and alumni of public diplomacy programs, further reinforcing the close and enduring people-to-people connections between the U.S. and Pakistan.