Islamabad, April 09: Eric Meyer, Senior Bureau Official for South and Central Asian Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, reaffirmed America’s commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties with Pakistan, with a special emphasis on critical minerals, while speaking at the Pakistan Mineral Investment Forum 2025 (PMIF25).
Trade Milestone: Soybean Exports Resume
Meyer cited the recent resumption of U.S. soybean exports to Pakistan as a “win-win” moment:
“Four vessels carrying more than 260,000 tons of soybeans have arrived over the last few weeks. It’s a major success for both U.S. exporters and Pakistani consumers.”
This resumption marks an important development in Pakistan’s agri-import sector and reflects ongoing efforts to stabilize food and agri-based trade relations between the two countries.
Focus on Critical Minerals
Meyer emphasized that the core purpose of the U.S. delegation’s visit is to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s mineral sector, particularly in critical minerals essential to modern industries such as:
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Electric vehicles
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Renewable energy
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Semiconductors
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Defense and aerospace
“Critical minerals are the raw materials for our most important technologies. President Donald J. Trump underscored the need to secure America’s minerals future, and partnerships like these are key to achieving that.”
Investment Climate and Bilateral Partnership
Commending Pakistan’s initiative to host the Investment Forum and create a transparent, investor-friendly environment, Meyer noted:
“Pakistan has made notable strides toward leveling the playing field for international investors. This forum is a great example of that progress.”
He also stressed the importance of people-to-people connections:
“So many of you have studied in the United States, taken part in our exchange programs, and maintain deep ties with American families and businesses. That is the real strength of our relationship.”
Looking Ahead
Meyer concluded with a clear message of intent:
“America is looking forward to leading the change in deepening our economic and strategic partnership with Pakistan, especially in the mineral and technology value chains.”
His visit reflects the increasing convergence of geoeconomic interests between Washington and Islamabad, especially as both countries seek to harness the potential of sustainable resource development and tech-enabled growth.
