Independent Report
Peshawar, Dec 2:
Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sohail Afridi held a key meeting with U.S. Consul General Thomas Eckert at the Chief Minister House, focusing on trade, investment, minerals, energy, and security cooperation.
During the discussions, both sides highlighted U.S. support in counter-terrorism and anti-narcotics efforts. Thomas Eckert described trade diplomacy as a central pillar of U.S. foreign policy and said promoting economic diplomacy strengthens overall peace and stability. He emphasized that partnerships in minerals and energy will further reinforce economic cooperation.
CM Sohail Afridi stressed that public interest remains central to all provincial government decisions. He said, under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minerals Act, local communities receive priority in investment opportunities. The provincial government will fully support and facilitate private investment that benefits the local population.
Afridi added that the government is working on small hydropower projects and dams to provide affordable and clean energy. Reflecting on the post-9/11 challenges, he noted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was the most affected province by terrorism but is now focusing on infrastructure development, institutional strengthening, and capacity building. He also highlighted that newly merged districts’ rare mineral resources will directly benefit local residents.
The meeting considered proposals to host a Business and Investment Roadshow to promote global trade and suggested inviting leaseholders of valuable and rare minerals to participate
