Deconstructing US-Pakistan Cooperation on Rare Earth Minerals

SUMMARY

The emerging U.S.–Pakistan engagement on rare earth and critical minerals marks a shift from security to geo-economic cooperation. Washington seeks to reduce dependence on China, which dominates global mineral processing, by investing in Pakistan’s vast copper and gold reserves, particularly in Balochistan’s $1 trillion Reko Diq project. Plans include financing local processing facilities and development aid to strengthen supply chains. However, Pakistan must balance U.S. opportunities with its deep ties to Beijing under CPEC. Washington’s initiatives such as the Critical Minerals Act, Mineral Security Partnership, and new consular presence reflect a broader strategy to secure resources and reshape regional economic alignments.

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