Pakistan, US discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in energy sector 

Islamabad (Web Desk): Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and US Charge d’Affaires to Pakistan Natalie A. Baker explored avenues to broaden cooperation between the two countries in the energy domain, with particular focus on oil, gas, and mineral resources.

The dialogue underscored shared interest in enhancing bilateral ties through technological collaboration and investment, aimed at fostering mutual economic growth.

Natalie A. Baker pointed to increasing enthusiasm among American companies to participate in Pakistan’s evolving energy market.

She noted that US firms are keen on entering the oil, gas, and mineral sectors, expressing optimism about the investment landscape. According to her, the US government remains committed to facilitating business connections between companies from both nations, particularly in the Exploration and Production sector, to realize the full potential of energy cooperation.

The minister welcomed the growing interest from US investors, emphasizing Pakistan's readiness to provide attractive opportunities.

He revealed that the government is preparing to launch a competitive bidding round for both onshore and offshore oil and gas exploration blocks. Malik described this initiative as a significant step toward opening up Pakistan’s largely untapped energy reserves to global partners.

Malik also highlighted that the country possesses considerable shale oil and gas reserves, which the government is eager to develop through foreign expertise and investment.

The conversation also reflected on the recent “Direct Line” webinar, which was aimed at introducing US companies to investment prospects in Pakistan’s mineral sector.

The two sides praised its outcome and viewed it as a template for expanding collaboration in the oil and gas industry. The success of this initiative, they agreed, should pave the way for similar platforms that encourage dialogue and partnership between energy sector stakeholders.

Baker emphasized that after years of cooperation on counterterrorism, the US is looking to expand its relationship with Pakistan into new areas, particularly the economic and energy sectors.

The meeting concluded with a shared pledge to intensify efforts in building a strong energy partnership, leveraging American innovation and Pakistani resources to fuel sustainable development on both sides.