A high-level US delegation, including United States Strategic Metals (USSM) and Mota-Engil, visited Pakistan from 7 to 9 September 2025 to explore opportunities for mining expansion, 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, where they were briefed on Pakistan’s vast reserves of copper, gold, and rare earth elements.
MoU Between Pakistan and the US
Pakistan and the United States signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in exploration and production of critical minerals. Senior officials, including US Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Zach Harkenrider, attended the event.
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FWO–USSM Landmark Agreement
The Frontier Works Organization (FWO), Pakistan’s largest critical minerals miner, signed a landmark MoU with USSM, a leading processor and recycler based in St. Louis, Missouri.
- The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation across defense, aerospace, and technology industries.
- The partnership will begin immediately with the export of minerals such as antimony, copper, gold, tungsten, and rare earth elements.
- Plans include establishing a USSM proprietary poly-metallic refinery in Pakistan, with an initial investment of around $500 million.
Sustainable and Innovative Collaboration
The partnership will emphasize sustainability, profitability, and environmental responsibility, ensuring benefits for both nations. Both parties will also explore innovative financing models, including tokenisation of critical minerals, enabling global investors to participate in Pakistan’s mineral wealth.
US Perspective
Speaking at the signing, US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker described the agreement as a “far-reaching partnership” and a testament to strong bilateral ties. She emphasized the importance of critical minerals for technology and renewable energy industries and expressed optimism about more American companies entering Pakistan’s mining sector.
Mota-Engil’s Entry into Pakistan
Separately, National Logistics Corporation (NLC) of Pakistan signed an MoU with Mota-Engil Group, a global leader in engineering and construction. The company is surveying opportunities in Pakistan to expand across West Asia, with a focus on job creation, technology transfer, and sustainable development.
