For decades, Pakistan has dreamed of tapping into its vast oil reserves to transform its struggling economy. Yet, despite numerous attempts, the country has never managed to extract enough oil to make a significant impact. The recent announcement by former US President Donald Trump about a potential partnership with Pakistan to exploit its 'massive' oil reserves has left many in Pakistan both surprised and skeptical.

According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), Pakistan may hold up to 9.1 billion barrels of recoverable oil. However, Afia Malik, an energy researcher in Pakistan, warns that these figures are often cited by government officials to attract foreign investors, but they remain unproven. In reality, Pakistan's proven oil reserves place it around 50th globally, far behind countries like Romania, Vietnam, and Brunei.

Pakistan's current oil production stands at less than 100,000 barrels per day, a fraction of the world's top producers like the United States, which produces around 13 million barrels daily. Despite this, Trump's optimistic remarks on social media have sparked hope among some Pakistanis, though most remain doubtful.

Malik points out that 'red tape, political interference, and bureaucratic inefficiencies' have consistently deterred foreign investors and limited progress in the oil sector. Trump suggested that private US companies might lead this new partnership, but the path to success remains unclear.

While the US and Pakistan have a history of failed attempts to unlock the country's oil potential, the recent announcement has been met with mixed reactions. Some analysts believe Trump's remarks may be more about sending a message to India, Pakistan's arch-rival, rather than genuine interest in oil development.

Meanwhile, the US is also showing growing interest in Pakistan's mineral and rare earth resources, which are crucial for technology and defense. China, a major supplier of rare earths, is investing heavily in infrastructure to connect its border with Pakistan's resource-rich regions, but security concerns, including rising militancy, continue to hinder progress.

Local communities have long felt left out of the benefits of resource extraction, and many fear that the government's recent moves to expand its control over mineral extraction could further fuel local grievances. As the government seeks foreign investment, it must also address the needs and concerns of those who live in the regions where these resources are found.

Ultimately, the success of any new oil or mineral projects in Pakistan will depend not only on the technical and financial challenges but also on the ability of the government to engage with local communities and ensure that the benefits of resource extraction are shared equitably.