Washington, DC [US], August 14 (ANI): The US government on Wednesday (local time) said it is looking forward to strengthening cooperation with Pakistan in critical minerals and hydrocarbons, with renewed focus on economic collaboration in other emerging sectors.
In a congratulatory message on Pakistan’s Independence Day, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the importance of continued partnership between the two nations.
“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 in a statement issued by the US Department of State.
He acknowledged Pakistan’s engagement with the US on key fronts, particularly counterterrorism and trade.
“The United States deeply appreciates Pakistan’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,” the statement read.
The message comes as Washington is actively seeking to enhance ties with Pakistan.
In July, US President Donald Trump announced a trade deal with Pakistan, touting a joint initiative to develop oil reserves in the country and even suggesting that “some day” Islamabad might sell oil to New Delhi.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the United States and Pakistan are in the process of selecting the oil company for the partnership.
“We have just concluded a deal with the country of Pakistan, whereby Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive oil reserves. We are in the process of choosing the oil company that will lead this partnership. Who knows, maybe they’ll be selling oil to India some day!” Trump wrote.
Earlier this month, the Trump administration announced the lowest tariff rates for Pakistani goods to the US in South Asia under its new tariff plan, with 19 percent imposed on Islamabad. India, by contrast, faced a 25 percent tariff, later raised by an additional 25 percent to a total of 50 percent due to India’s continued oil purchases from Russia.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs criticized the US move, calling it “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” and said New Delhi would take “all actions necessary to protect its national interests.”
Notably, Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir visited the US for the second time in less than two months, reportedly stating during an event in Florida that Pakistan could use nuclear weapons against India and “half the world” in the event of an existential threat.
The trip followed a private luncheon with Trump in June, during which Munir reportedly recommended Trump’s name for the Nobel Peace Prize. (ANI)
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