Pakistan and the United States have discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral energy cooperation, including potential long-term energy supply contracts and investment in the country’s refinery upgradation programme.
The discussions took place during a meeting between Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker, according to a press release issued on Monday.
During the meeting, Malik briefed Baker on Pakistan’s measures to ensure energy security amid the evolving geopolitical situation, highlighting challenges to fuel availability arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Baker congratulated Pakistan on managing its fuel supplies effectively, noting that the country had avoided a fuel shortage despite challenging regional circumstances.
The petroleum minister highlighted ongoing engagement between the two countries to explore avenues for cooperation, noting that Pakistan’s refinery upgradation programme could create investment opportunities for US financial institutions.
Baker expressed the United States’ willingness to work closely with Pakistan to address its energy needs. She stressed the importance of creating opportunities for US companies in Pakistan and expressed optimism about establishing long-term energy supply contracts that could benefit both countries and create business opportunities for American firms.
During the meeting, the managing directors of Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) briefed participants on the interest shown by US companies in supplying liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Pakistan.
Malik also invited US companies to participate in the upcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum (PMIF), highlighting investment opportunities in the country.
The minister appreciated US support and said enhanced bilateral engagement would strengthen energy cooperation and contribute to Pakistan’s long-term energy security.