US seeks Pakistan’s partnership for American locomotive sales and mineral exploration

The United States, under President Donald Trump, has approached Pakistan to explore the sale of American locomotives and cooperation on mineral reserve assessments, along with agreements to accelerate extraction, according to Pakistani government sources, cited by Express Tribune.

These discussions reportedly took place during Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb’s visit to Washington in October, coinciding with the IMF annual meetings. Aurangzeb held meetings with Raymond Emory Cox, Special Assistant to the US President for International Economic Relations, and Ricky Gill, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for South and Central Asia.

Sources claimed in an Express Tribune report that Gill requested Pakistan’s support for the purchase of American locomotives under a previously issued tender. Pakistan Railways, however, is facing liquidity constraints and is largely focused on repairing and refurbishing its existing fleet.

The meetings also touched upon Starlink’s licence application for high-speed internet services, particularly in rural and remote areas. US officials reportedly emphasised that protecting and advancing American commercial interests remains a top priority and welcomed Pakistan’s withdrawal of a proposed 5% digital services tax.

In addition, Washington highlighted collaboration in the critical minerals sector, proposing reserve assessments and offtake agreements to expedite extraction, while noting the strategic importance of artificial intelligence in future projects.

Pakistani authorities have held internal consultations to evaluate the US interest in both the transport and mineral sectors. The Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Railways have not provided comments on the development.