Trump Announces US-Pakistan Oil Deal
Above: Pakistan's finance minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, addressed the IMF and World Bank Spring meetings in Washington, DC, US, on April 22, 2025. Image copyright: Kent Nishimura/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
This deal represents a strategic win for both nations, opening new economic opportunities while strengthening bilateral ties. Pakistan gains access to American technical expertise and investment to develop its energy sector, while the U.S. secures a foothold in South Asian energy markets and counters Chinese influence in the region.
Anti-Trump narrative
The timing raises questions about the deal's substance, coming immediately after punitive tariffs on India and amid unclear details about Pakistan's actual oil reserves. With Pakistan ranking only 52nd globally in proven reserves and producing just 20% of its needs, the "massive" characterization appears overstated.
