Eric Meyer, a senior bureau official (SBO) for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs at the US State Department, emphasized the potential of Pakistan’s vast mineral resources, stating that it could yield significant economic benefits for both Islamabad and Washington.
According to a statement, Meyer led a delegation to Islamabad to advance US interests in Pakistan’s critical minerals sector, enhance economic cooperation, and reaffirm the importance of counterterrorism collaboration.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, Meyer stressed that Pakistan’s mineral wealth — if developed responsibly and transparently — holds mutual advantages for both nations.
“Critical minerals are the raw materials necessary for our most advanced technologies,” he said. “President Trump has made it clear that securing diverse and reliable sources of these materials is a strategic priority. Pakistan’s vast mineral potential can benefit both our countries.”
He added that the US continues to collaborate with international partners and Pakistani stakeholders to encourage investment, share technical expertise, and promote sustainable resource management within the minerals sector.
During his two-day visit, Meyer also held high-level meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Petroleum Minister Musadik Malik.
A US delegation led by US State Dept official Eric Meyer calls on Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir in Rawalpindi on April 9, 2025. — ISPR
Discussions centered on expanding opportunities for American businesses in Pakistan, strengthening economic ties, and reinforcing joint efforts in the fight against terrorism.
Meyer also engaged with foreign policy analysts, representatives of the American business community, and alumni of US public diplomacy programs to reaffirm the enduring people-to-people ties between the two countries.
‘Desire to work with Trump’
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with the US team led by Meyer and reiterated his government’s desire to work with President Trump.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, which was attended by the US delegation.
During their interaction, the Prime Minister welcomed US participation at the forum and emphasized the immense opportunities presented by Pakistan’s minerals sector, encouraging US companies to invest in this priority area.
He underscored the significance of Pakistan-US relations not only in the bilateral context but also for regional peace and security, as well as enhanced cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment and counter-terrorism.
Meanwhile, Meyer acknowledged the potential of Pakistan’s mineral sector and conveyed the interest of US companies in investing in the minerals sector. He also expressed the US desire to collaborate with Pakistan on issues of shared interest.
