First shipment of minerals to US: Imran Khan’s party opposes, says secret deal will worsen country’s situation

The purpose of the deal is to establish plants in Pakistan for mineral exploration and processing. The samples were prepared with the assistance of the Pakistani Army’s branch, the Frontier Works Organization (FWO).

USSM described it as a major step forward in strengthening Pakistan–US friendship. The company said that the agreement covers everything from mineral exploration to processing.

The Missouri-based company, US Strategic Metals (USSM), stated that the deal includes everything from mineral exploration to refinery construction. USSM manufactures and recycles critical minerals used in defence, technology, and energy sectors.

The first shipment reportedly includes antimony, copper concentrate, and rare earth elements such as neodymium and praseodymium.

In September, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir met former US President Donald Trump, during which Munir reportedly showcased a briefcase containing samples of rare minerals. Pakistan claims its mineral reserves are worth around $6 trillion and has been seeking US investment in the sector.

Pakistan proposed new port

Just three days ago, advisers to General Munir presented a proposal to Washington for developing a new port in Balochistan.

According to Reuters, Pakistan wants US investors to develop and operate a commercial port in Pasni, a coastal city along the Arabian Sea. The proposal emphasises that the facility would be used exclusively for trade and mineral exports, not for any military purpose.

Pasni is located about 112 kilometres from Gwadar Port, which is operated by China. Analysts say the new port could give the US easier access to Pakistan’s strategic mineral resources, including copper and antimony.

Imran Khan’s party opposed mineral deal

Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has strongly opposed Pakistan’s recent mineral export deal with the United States. PTI leader Sheikh Waqas Akram said that such “secret agreements” could worsen the country’s situation.

The party has demanded that the government make the full details of its agreements with Washington public. “Parliament and the people must be taken into confidence. We will not tolerate any compromise against national interests,” Akram said.