New era for US-Pak co-op in energy, minerals, IT, and crypto: Aurangzeb

WASHINGTON: Pakistan and the United States have finalied a trade agreement aimed at expanding bilateral trade, increasing market access, and promoting investment and cooperation across multiple sectors.

Speaking on the landmark deal, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said that the agreement is designed to reduce tariffs on Pakistani exports and increase US investment in infrastructure and development projects in Pakistan. It also includes provisions for enhanced cooperation in energy, minerals, IT, and cryptocurrency sectors, he added.

The ageemement was signed between Finance Minister Aurangzeb, US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and United States Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer. Secretary of Commerce Jawad Paul and Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh were also present.

The Pakistan Embassy in Washington described the development as a major step toward strengthening trade relations, broadening economic cooperation, and encouraging partnerships at both the federal and state levels in the US.

President Donald Trump announced the agreement through a post on Truth Social. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the US President’s role in the deal, expressing appreciation for his leadership and referring to the agreement as a milestone in bilateral relations.

Both countries are expected to gain improved access to each other’s markets.

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