The United States has approved $1.3 billion in financing for Pakistan's Reko Diq copper and gold project, as reported by Business Recorder on February 7, 2026. This funding is part of a broader effort to bolster global critical mineral supply chains, announced during the 2026 Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington. The financing, facilitated through the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), is a strategic move to enhance the US's leadership in critical minerals diplomacy. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the launch of the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE), which aims to succeed the Minerals Security Partnership, with the Republic of Korea chairing until June. Tribune Latest, on February 6, 2026, noted that the Reko Diq project, requiring a total capital injection of $3.2 billion, has already commenced construction, with commercial production anticipated by 2028. The project is expected to significantly boost Pakistan's mineral sector, which currently contributes around 3.2% to the GDP.