PR No. 146

Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik Meets U.S. Assistant Secretary S. Paul Kapur; Both Sides Discuss Expanding Economic and Energy Cooperation

Islamabad: May 14, 2026

Federal Minister for Petroleum Mr. Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with Mr. S. Paul Kapur, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, United States, along with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Ms. Natalie A. Baker.During the meeting, the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, with a particular focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation in the energy sector and expanding economic engagement between Pakistan and the United States.

Mr. S. Paul Kapur stated that Pakistan and the United States have always been important to each other and noted that the current momentum presents an opportunity that can be translated into a stronger economic partnership.

Federal Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik welcomed the U.S. delegation and briefed them on the reforms underway in Pakistan’s energy sector aimed at indigenization, improving efficiency, and creating an enabling environment to attract foreign investment. He highlighted the potential for collaboration in key areas including port infrastructure, development of storage facilities, and refinery upgradation projects, exploration and minerals. He said that it is the first time that Pakistan has imported around six million barrels of crude from United States.

The Minister further stated that Pakistan and American leadership share a close relationship, which provides a strong foundation for expanding cooperation in strategic sectors.

Both sides agreed to explore avenues of cooperation in the petroleum and energy sectors and discussed the importance of collaboration in capacity-building initiatives to strengthen institutional and technical capabilities.

The meeting concluded with shared commitment to maintain close engagement and enhancing bilateral cooperation in areas of shared interest.

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