A United States delegation, led by Eric Meyer, Senior Bureau Official at the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, will visit Islamabad from April 8-10, 2025, to participate in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum (PMIF25).
The forum, set to be held at the Jinnah Convention Centre on April 8-9, 2025, will showcase Pakistan’s vast untapped mineral resources and promote investment in its mining sector.
Meyer’s visit aims to strengthen U.S.-Pakistan economic ties, particularly in the critical minerals sector. According to a statement by the U.S. State Department, Eric Meyer “will meet with senior Pakistani officials to expand opportunities for American businesses in Pakistan and promote the deepening of economic ties between our two countries”. The delegation’s participation in PMIF25 highlights the growing significance of mineral resources in global economic development.
Unlocking Pakistan’s Mineral Potential
Pakistan’s mineral wealth is extensive, with rich deposits of coal, copper, gold, and rare earth elements scattered across its regions. The country’s southwestern Balochistan province is particularly rich in gold and copper, while the Swat Valley is home to some of the world’s finest emerald mines. To leverage this wealth, Pakistan has prioritized the mining sector as part of its economic development strategy.
The government has introduced the National Minerals Harmonisation Framework, a policy initiative aimed at creating a more attractive environment for local and international investors. The framework focuses on regulatory reforms, transparency, and sustainable mining practices, which are crucial for the sector’s long-term growth.
Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025
OGDCL, Pakistan’s leading exploration and production company, is at the forefront of organizing PMIF25, along with strategic partners Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division).
The PMIF25 will gather key stakeholders, including government representatives, international investors, and industry experts. Partners for the event include major mining companies such as Barrick, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC), Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL), Pakistan Minerals Private Limited (PMPL), Frontier Works Organization (FWO), Mari Energies.
The forum will bring together global investors, industry experts, and government officials to discuss infrastructure, technological advancements, and responsible mining practices. The event is expected to foster international partnerships and contribute to Pakistan’s aspirations of becoming a global mining hub.
The event is expected to play a transformative role in the mining sector, facilitating partnerships that will foster growth, job creation, and enhanced resource extraction. Pakistan is positioning itself as a key player in the global mineral market, and the forum will be central to these efforts.
Strengthening US-Pakistan Economic Ties
Meyer’s visit is timely, following years of trade tensions between the U.S. and Pakistan, particularly after the imposition of tariffs in 2018. Despite these challenges, both countries recognize the potential for cooperation in sectors like mining. Pakistan’s exports to the U.S., including textiles, surgical goods, and rice, are valued at around $6 billion annually, making the U.S. a key trading partner.
The PMIF25 represents an opportunity to strengthen economic ties and explore mutually beneficial collaborations. As global demand for minerals grows, Pakistan is well-positioned to attract investments that will drive its economic transformation.
