After taking $60 billion from China, Pakistan offers critical mineral assets in Balochistan to US during Asim Munir–Trump meet

Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, recently held a closed-door meeting with former US President Donald Trump in Washington, where discussions reportedly included a potential offer of access to critical mineral assets in Balochistan. This comes after China has already invested an estimated $60 billion in Pakistan, much of it focused on infrastructure and mining under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

While neither side has officially confirmed the terms, reports in Pakistani media and statements in parliament suggest that Washington may now be exploring commercial entry into Balochistan’s mineral-rich zones—long seen as strategically important and previously dominated by Chinese interests.

Balochistan: Rich in minerals, light on development

Balochistan, covering nearly 43 per cent of Pakistan’s land area, is home to some of the world’s most sought-after raw materials. These include copper, lithium, rare-earth elements, gold, coal, and chromite. Despite its natural wealth, the province remains underdeveloped and politically sensitive.


At the centre of attention is the Reko Diq project, one of the largest undeveloped copper and gold deposits globally. Canadian mining company Barrick Gold estimates it holds 7.3 million tonnes of copper and 15 million ounces of gold, with an additional 8.4 million tonnes in inferred copper resources.

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US signals interest amid push to reduce dependence on rivals

According to media reports and parliamentary comments in Pakistan, the Munir–Trump meeting touched on strategic access to Balochistan’s minerals. This aligns with the United States’ ongoing efforts to diversify its supply chains for critical resources, reducing dependence on countries it considers adversarial.

A Pakistani lawmaker also raised the issue in the National Assembly, indicating that General Munir’s US visit may have included negotiations involving Balochistan’s rare-earth reserves. While the US has not made any official announcements, the development hints at a potential shift in mineral diplomacy in the region.

The deal with Ukraine

Similar to its interest in Balochistan, the U.S. is also in discussions with Ukraine for a $500 billion deal focused on critical minerals. The agreement aims to secure vital resources such as lithium and rare earths, essential for U.S. defense systems, emerging technologies, and green energy solutions. Ukraine, with its vast mineral wealth, is seen as a key partner in diversifying the U.S. supply of these crucial materials. This deal is expected to provide significant economic benefits to Ukraine, attracting investment for its mineral extraction industries. Ultimately, the collaboration aligns with U.S. interests in reducing dependence on adversarial nations and enhancing global influence over critical resources essential for technological and national security advancements.

Chinese Investment in Pakistan

China has been a dominant economic player in Balochistan, investing in ports, roads, and mining projects through CPEC. China has invested nearly $60 billion in CPEC corridor in Pakistan, the majority of which lies in Balochistan. It has been involved in copper and gold mining, including earlier phases of the Reko Diq project. However, Chinese investments have faced setbacks due to rising attacks by Baloch separatist groups, who oppose foreign exploitation of local resources.

The entry of the United States into the picture could complicate the geopolitical equation in the region and potentially trigger concerns in Beijing, which has committed billions in strategic investments.

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Broader Scope of Cooperation

Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations said Munir’s discussions with Trump also “explored collaboration in trade, artificial intelligence, energy and emerging technologies.” The statement added that both sides want broader strategic and economic ties, with Trump “indicating a willingness” to deepen engagement across sectors.