US Delegation Explores Mining and Infrastructure Opportunities in Pakistan
A high-level US delegation, including representatives from United States Strategic Metals (USSM) and Mota-Engil, visited Pakistan from 7 to 9 September 2025 to explore opportunities in the mining and infrastructure sectors. The visit aimed to assess potential for value addition in mineral resources and development of supporting infrastructure.
The delegation held meetings with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Minister of Petroleum, and Minister of Commerce, and received briefings on Pakistan’s vast mineral reserves, including copper, gold, and rare earth elements. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Pakistan and the United States to enhance cooperation in critical mineral exploration and production.
Landmark MoU Between FWO and USSM
The Frontier Works Organization (FWO), Pakistan’s largest miner of critical minerals, signed a historic MoU with USSM, a leading US-based processor and recycler of critical minerals. The agreement sets a framework for collaboration in minerals essential to defense, aerospace, and technology industries.
The partnership will start with the export of readily available minerals such as antimony, copper, gold, tungsten, and rare earth elements, with plans to establish a USSM poly-metallic refinery in Pakistan. The first phase of the deal is expected to involve $500 million in investment in Pakistan’s critical minerals sector.
Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
The MoU emphasizes sustainability, profitability, and environmental responsibility. Both parties will explore innovative financing and digital solutions, including tokenization of critical minerals, to enable global investors to participate in Pakistan’s mineral sector, enhancing transparency, liquidity, and value creation.
US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker highlighted the agreement as a milestone in strengthening bilateral ties. She called it a “far-reaching partnership” with immense potential for economic growth and long-term collaboration in critical mineral production.
Mota-Engil Partnership
Additionally, the National Logistics Corporation of Pakistan signed an MoU with Mota-Engil Group, a global leader in engineering and construction. The company is exploring long-term infrastructure projects in West Asia, aiming to align with Pakistan’s government vision, promote job creation, technology transfer, and sustainable development.
This visit underscores the growing interest of US companies in Pakistan’s mining and infrastructure sectors and paves the way for expanded economic cooperation between the two nations.