A Rebuttal to the Politicization of Misconceptions
Pakistan, April 10 — Pakistan stands at the intersection of economic potential and transformative change. With the upcoming Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum scheduled for 2025 in Islamabad, this event signifies much more than an exhibition of mineral resources; it embodies a determined nation’s journey towards self-sufficiency, financial stability, and a brighter future for its 240 million citizens. However, some parties appear unwilling to allow Pakistan to fully control its story.
Recently, Mehlaqa Samdani, an American citizen who styles herself as a 'pro-democracy activist,' gained attention on social media by encouraging her followers to put pressure on U.S. officials visiting Pakistan to emphasize supposed 'democratic standards' rather than focusing on economic collaboration. In her public message aimed at Erik Meyer from the U.S. State Department, she presents a skewed and partial view of Pakistan, entirely overlooking the nuances and ambitions of her fellow citizens. It should be noted: Ms. Samdani does not represent the voice of Pakistani people.
Her position contradicts the values she professes to support. As Pakistan seeks increased global cooperation and encourages investments in areas such as renewable energy, information technology, and mining, efforts to make economic ties politically charged are not just unwise—they are detrimental. These actions run counter to the aspirations of countless industrious Pakistani citizens seeking job opportunities and security, rather than empty displays from individuals out of touch with the nation’s real challenges.
The potential value of unexploited resources within Pakistan’s mining industry is pegged at more than $6 trillion. Beyond being merely a figure, this represents a promising horizon—a horizon brimming with prospects for young people seeking jobs, fostering growth in less-serviced regions like Balochistan, and forming alliances capable of elevating whole societies. The PMIF 2025 presents a chance to instigate genuine and enduring transformation in territories that have historically been overlooked. Questioning these initiatives serves little purpose apart from perpetuating the harmful perception that Pakistan should consistently be seen as suspicious and unstable.
This critique originates from a position of privilege detached from the everyday struggles faced by ordinary Pakistanis. As she advocates for democratic principles from abroad, countless individuals inside Pakistan are caught up in an intense battle—not merely for political voice, but for financial respectability and fundamental life chances. It is these very citizens who stand to gain from international investment, employment generation, and infrastructural advancements facilitated via platforms such as PMIF25.
It’s important to emphasize that Mehlaqa Samdani does not hold Pakistani citizenship. Her base of support, followers, and allegiances are rooted outside of Pakistan. At such a critical economic moment, her involvement smells of foreign interests that diverge from the everyday people of Pakistan. It’s profoundly concerning to witness an individual without a vested interest in Pakistan’s upcoming prospects leveraging their clout to obstruct a potential advancement for the nation. The relationship between Pakistan and the United States has lasted more than seven decades—built upon reciprocal regard and common objectives. This alliance should be reinforced instead of being undermined by limited activist efforts that prioritize sensationalism over progress.
Pakistani citizens, particularly the young demographic which constitutes more than 60% of the nation’s populace, do not seek validation from foreign observers. Instead, they are initiating new businesses, engaging in governmental roles, spearheading local initiatives, and gearing up to revitalize the country’s economy. The Minerals Forum stands as an essential component of this shift. It aims at tangible outcomes—specifically attracting investments, enhancing transparency, and facilitating access to international marketplaces.
Our democratic systems are changing, indeed—but then again, all democracies are evolving. Reducing an entire country’s advancement to mere catchphrases tweeted from overseas is both intellectually lacking and strategically unwise.
To the wider Pakistani diaspora: this is not the time for division. Pakistan needs your support-not lectures. Constructive criticism is a part of democracy, but undermining national economic forums through public pressure campaigns only serves those who wish to see Pakistan falter. We don't need elitist voices drowning in comfort telling us how to fix our problems. We need investment, innovation and confidence in Pakistan's potential. We need partners who believe in our capacity to grow-not gatekeepers who benefit from keeping us stagnant.
Pakistan’s abundant natural resources, youthful population, and advantageous geographical location render it an attractive country for investment—not only financial, but also in terms of confidence. The Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum isn’t focused on politics—it’s centered around advancement. No level of outside interference should drown out the sound of a nation ascending.
The author is an alum of QAU, pursuing an MPhil degree, and works as a freelance columnist from their base in Islamabad. For correspondence, reach out to fa7263125@gmail.com.