The United States is seeking to expand cooperation with Pakistan in critical minerals and hydrocarbons, along with boosting collaboration in emerging economic sectors, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement marking Pakistan’s Independence Day.
“On behalf of the United States, I extend our warm congratulations to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate their Independence Day on August 14,” Rubio said, noting Washington’s appreciation for Islamabad’s engagement on counterterrorism and trade.
“We look forward to exploring new areas of economic cooperation, including critical minerals and hydrocarbons, and fostering dynamic business partnerships which will promote a prosperous future for Americans and Pakistanis,” he added.
The statement comes amid a renewed push by the US to strengthen ties with Pakistan. In July, former President Donald Trump announced a trade deal to jointly develop Pakistan’s oil reserves, even suggesting Islamabad might one day export oil to India. He said both nations are currently selecting the oil company to lead the partnership.
The Trump administration also recently set the lowest tariff rate in South Asia for Pakistani goods—19 per cent—while imposing a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods, later raised to 50 per cent due to India’s ongoing oil purchases from Russia. New Delhi has condemned the move as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” vowing to protect its national interests.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir visited the US for the second time in under two months, making controversial remarks in Florida about potential nuclear use against India in an existential crisis. His visit followed a private luncheon with Trump in June, during which he reportedly endorsed the former president for the Nobel Peace Prize.
