Pakistan has sent its first consignment of rare earth minerals and critical minerals to the United States. This move is sparking political and social controversy, with citizens and political parties protesting, viewing it as a sign of the country's foreign dependency.
US-PAK: Pakistan's Army Chief, Asim Munir, has dispatched the first consignment of rare earth minerals and critical minerals to the United States. Following this move, protests have erupted across Pakistan at both political and social levels. Citizens and political parties are expressing concern, viewing it as an unnecessary foreign dependency for the country's resources.
Materials Sent to the US
The consignment includes rare earth elements such as antimony, copper concentrate, neodymium, and praseodymium. These minerals are used in electronic devices, energy production, and advanced technological equipment. Experts state that these minerals hold strategic importance for any nation's economic and technological power.
Agreement Signed in September
Last month, Pakistan entered into an agreement with the American company US Strategic Metals (USSM) for the exploration and development of mineral resources. Under this agreement, approximately $500 million will be invested to establish mineral processing and development facilities in Pakistan. USSM described it as a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between Pakistan and the United States.
Viral Photo of Trump and Munir
Recently, the White House released a picture showing Asim Munir presenting some colorful pieces of Pakistan's rare earth minerals in a briefcase to US President Donald Trump. This photo went viral on social media. Experts suggest that this image signifies Pakistan's mineral wealth and its strategic cooperation with the United States.
Pakistan's Mineral Wealth
According to a report by The Dawn, Pakistan's mineral wealth is estimated at approximately $6 trillion. This figure makes it one of the most resource-rich countries in the world. However, despite this, several multinational companies have left Pakistan after failing to acquire the promised mineral resources. Consequently, the country's mineral wealth has not been adequately leveraged.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has expressed concern over the secret agreements made with the United States. Sheikh Waqas Akram, the party's information secretary, has urged the government to make public the full details of all agreements made with the US and American companies. He stated that parliament and the general public should be involved in this process.
