Pakistan, US explore long-term energy deals and refinery investment

Celina Ali

Islamabad: Pakistan and the United States this week explored opportunities to expand bilateral energy cooperation, including potential long-term energy supply agreements, liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports and investment in Pakistan’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, focusing on energy security, commercial partnerships and opportunities for American companies in Pakistan’s energy sector.

During the meeting, Malik briefed Baker on Pakistan’s efforts to maintain fuel supplies amid an evolving geopolitical situation, highlighting the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Baker congratulated Pakistan on managing its fuel supplies despite regional uncertainty, noting that the country had avoided a fuel shortage under challenging circumstances.

The petroleum minister highlighted ongoing engagement between Islamabad and Washington to identify areas of mutual interest, particularly the modernisation of Pakistan’s refining infrastructure. He noted that the refinery upgradation programme could open investment opportunities for US financial institutions and companies.

Baker expressed Washington’s willingness to work closely with Pakistan to address its energy requirements, emphasising the importance of creating opportunities for American businesses in the country.

She also expressed optimism about the possibility of establishing long-term energy supply contracts that could benefit both countries while creating commercial opportunities for US firms.

The meeting also examined prospects for LNG supplies to Pakistan, with the managing directors of Pakistan State Oil and Pakistan LNG Limited briefing participants on interest shown by US companies in supplying the fuel.

Greater cooperation in LNG procurement could provide another avenue for expanding bilateral energy trade, although the terms and commercial viability of any future arrangements would remain important considerations.

Malik also invited American companies to participate in the upcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, highlighting investment opportunities in the country’s mineral resources sector.

The petroleum minister appreciated US support and expressed confidence that stronger bilateral engagement would help deepen energy cooperation and contribute to Pakistan’s long-term energy security.

The discussions reflect efforts by both countries to broaden commercial engagement in the energy sector, with potential cooperation spanning fuel supplies, LNG imports, refinery modernisation and investment in Pakistan’s wider resource economy.