Gentry Thomas, a close associate of Donald Trump, plans billions of dollars in investment in Pakistan and Bangladesh. His plans also include the exploration and development of a gold mine near the Indus River.
America: Just ten days after Donald Trump became President of the United States, Texas-based investor Gentry Thomas created a stir in South Asia's political and economic landscape with a visit to Pakistan. Thomas, a close friend of Donald Trump Jr. and a Wharton School of Business alumnus, has pledged billions of dollars in investment in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Significantly, he is actively involved in the exploration and development of a placer gold mine discovered along the Indus River. Let's understand in detail who Gentry Thomas is, his connection with Trump, and his ambitious plans for Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Who is Gentry Thomas and his relationship with Trump
Gentry Thomas is an investor and businessman from Texas. He is a long-time friend of Donald Trump Jr., having studied together at the Wharton School of Business in Pennsylvania during the 1990s. Thomas initiated plans for billions of dollars in investment in Pakistan just ten days after Trump's presidential inauguration.
His company operates under the name 'White Bridge Global,' known for investments across various sectors. Thomas described himself as a close associate of Trump and stated that his visit was part of the US President's economic diplomacy.
Billions of Dollars Investment in Pakistan and the Gold Mine
Gentry Thomas met with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and promised billions of dollars in investment. He stated that his focus is on the minerals, real estate, and property sectors. Specifically, Thomas outlined plans to construct luxury buildings in Pakistan unlike any seen before.
Furthermore, Thomas finalized a significant deal with Pakistan's Apex Energy, aimed at exploring and developing a placer gold mine discovered along the Indus River.
Pakistan's National Engineering Services recently claimed the discovery of a placer gold block worth approximately 800 billion Pakistani Rupees in Attock District near the Indus River. This gold is estimated to be worth billions of dollars. The Geological Survey of Pakistan (GSP) has also confirmed the presence of minerals and precious metals in parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
This gold is believed to have been deposited in the Indus River sediments over millions of years, originating from the Himalayas. This discovery has further fueled investor interest in Pakistan.
Large Investment Plan in Bangladesh
Following Pakistan, Gentry Thomas's next stop was Bangladesh. He met with economic expert Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka and proposed substantial investment in the country. Thomas stated that his company intends to invest in real estate, low-cost social housing, aerospace, and the defense industry.
Thomas praised the progress made by the Bangladeshi government and noted improvements in law and order. He expressed enthusiasm for investment in Bangladesh, overlooking concerns regarding alleged injustices against Hindu minorities.
Business in Turkey and Dubai
Gentry Thomas's activities are not limited to Pakistan and Bangladesh. He is also active in Turkey. In April 2024, he signed an agreement in Dubai to establish a joint venture with Turkey's Tera Holding in the oil and mining sectors.
Impact on India and Regional Politics
Gentry Thomas's activities present challenges for India. On May 10th, Trump claimed to have mediated in reducing tensions between India and Pakistan. He suggested both countries form trade partnerships with the US, a proposal explicitly rejected by India.
Cryptocurrency and Digital Financing in Pakistan
Pakistan recently concluded a major cryptocurrency deal with World Liberty Financial, a company connected to an American family. Pakistan aims to become the cryptocurrency capital of South Asia.
This deal involves individuals close to the US President, who are striving to propel Pakistan into a new era of digital financing. This move could significantly reshape Pakistan's economic prospects.
