ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United States on Thursday agreed to enhance cooperation in the mining, minerals, and energy sectors while exploring ways to strengthen counterterrorism collaboration, the Interior Ministry said.

The understanding emerged during a meeting between Interior Minister Senator Mohsin Naqvi and US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs John Mark Pomeroy.

During the talks, both sides discussed Pakistan-US bilateral relations, regional security challenges, and means to boost counterterrorism efforts, particularly in the field of internal security.

The US official condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Islamabad and Quetta, expressing condolences to the victims.

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Speaking at the meeting, Minister Naqvi said global cooperation is essential in the fight against terrorism and stressed that relations with the United States are key to achieving this goal. He welcomed US investment in Pakistan’s mining, minerals, and energy sectors and assured American investors of a safe and secure environment for business.

John Pomeroy emphasised that the United States attaches great importance to its relationship with Pakistan.

The meeting was also attended by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, US charge d’affaires Natalie Baker, the federal secretary of interior, and other senior officials.