Pakistan, US explore expanded trade, investment links

May 13, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and United States economic cooperation received renewed focus during discussions held in Islamabad, where both sides reviewed investment opportunities, trade relations,

and Pakistan’s ongoing reform agenda aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability and improving the business and investment climate, according to the press release.

The U.S. delegation, led by Assistant Secretary Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs S. Paul Kapur and accompanied by U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker, engaged with Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb at the Finance Division.

During the exchange, the Pakistani side underscored the government’s commitment to fostering a transparent, predictable, and investor-friendly environment.

The Finance Minister highlighted ongoing economic stabilization efforts, progress on reforms, and measures focused on improving fiscal sustainability, broadening the tax base, accelerating digitization, and promoting financial inclusion.

He also shared recent positive trends in key indicators, including remittances, external inflows, and renewed access to international capital markets, while emphasizing the drive to attract long-term investment in energy, mining, infrastructure, technology, and digital finance.

On the U.S. side, officials acknowledged Pakistan’s reform efforts and stressed the importance of maintaining a competitive and predictable business environment to support greater foreign investment and commercial engagement.

They noted strong interest among American companies in exploring long-term opportunities in Pakistan and expressed willingness to expand economic cooperation.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker also appreciated Pakistan’s continued engagement with American businesses and the efforts being made to facilitate an enabling investment climate, highlighting growing interest across multiple sectors.

The discussions further explored enhanced collaboration with U.S. businesses and investors, with both sides recognizing the importance of sustained engagement between public and private stakeholders.

The dialogue concluded with a reaffirmation of commitment to strengthening Pakistan–U.S. economic ties and advancing shared economic and development objectives.

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