The United States Strategic Metals (USSM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pakistan’s Frontier Works Organization (FWO) to cooperate in the exploration and development of critical minerals.
The signing ceremony took place at the Prime Minister’s House on Monday attended by senior officials from both sides.
Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Islamabad Zachary Harkenrider accompanied the USSM delegation during the occasion.
Strengthening bilateral ties
Welcoming the development, Chargé d’Affaires at the US Mission in Pakistan Natalie Baker described the MoU as “another example of the strengthening of the mutually beneficial relationship between the US and Pakistan.”
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She added that such agreements are central to advancing economic cooperation, noting that the Trump administration has prioritized bilateral partnerships in the minerals sector due to its importance for American security and prosperity.
Critical minerals and energy security
Based in Missouri, US Strategic Metals specializes in the production and reuse of critical minerals.
These resources—listed by the US Department of Energy as essential for advanced manufacturing and energy production—are considered vital for clean energy technologies, defense industries, and high-tech applications.
Baker expressed optimism about the future of such collaborations, stating: “We look forward to future agreements between US companies and their counterparts in Pakistan’s minerals and mining sector.”
