Pakistan, US pledge deeper counterterrorism ties, expand investment cooperation
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs John Mark Pomeroy, US Ambassador Natalie Baker, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry meet in Islamabad on February 12, 2026. PHOTO: HANDOUT
Pakistan and the United States have agreed to enhance cooperation in counterterrorism and promote investment in the mining, minerals, and energy sectors, according to an official statement issued by the federal government on Thursday.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, and US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs John Mark Pomeroy. US Ambassador to Pakistan Natalie Baker was also present on the occasion.
U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary John Mark Pommersheim and Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker expressed U.S. appreciation for Pakistan’s partnership in countering terrorism, advancing joint security priorities, and countering illegal migration while meeting with Interior Minister…
In the meeting, the US official strongly condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Islamabad and Quetta and expressed condolences to the families of the victims. Both sides discussed Pakistan–US bilateral relations, the regional security situation, and ways to further strengthen cooperation in counterterrorism, particularly in the domain of internal security, the release stated.
"Global cooperation is essential in the fight against terrorism, and relations with the United States are of key importance in this regard," Naqvi was quoted as saying. He welcomed US interest in investing in Pakistan’s key economic sectors and reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to global partnerships aimed at eliminating terrorism and promoting sustainable economic growth, the statement added.
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The minister assured that American investors would be provided a safe and secure environment in Pakistan. The two sides also agreed to encourage greater investment and partnerships in Pakistan’s mining, minerals, and energy sectors, identifying these areas as having significant potential for mutual economic benefit.
Pomeroy said Washington attaches great importance to its relationship with Pakistan and remains committed to working closely with Islamabad on shared security and economic priorities, the statement concluded.
Previously, Pakistan has signed a memorandum of understanding with a US firm to develop critical minerals, including antimony, copper, gold and tungsten. The agreement is intended to enhance Pakistan’s role in the global supply chain for materials essential to energy, defence and advanced manufacturing.
In addition, the United States has earmarked $13 billion for the Reko Diq copper-gold mining project, one of Pakistan’s largest undeveloped mineral ventures. The funding is expected to support mining operations and associated infrastructure development.