Pakistan, U.S. seek stronger trade, investment ties

January 17, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and the United States discussed bilateral ties and expressed hope that trade and investment relations between the two nations will continue to grow.

This was stated by Lisa Curtis, Director of the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) in Washington, during a meeting with Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal.

They also emphasized the importance of multiple exchanges in strengthening people-to-people ties, according to the press release issued.

The United States has been one of the largest sources of foreign direct investment in Pakistan and remains its largest export market.

Reflecting on the recent commencement of Pakistan's tenure as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for 2025-2026, the Minister reiterated that Pakistan will collaborate with all UN member states to uphold the principles of the UN Charter and prevent war.

Additionally, Pakistan aims to promote peace, foster global prosperity, and ensure universal respect for human rights.

Ahsan Iqbal reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to multilateralism, international law, peaceful settlement of disputes, and friendly relations with countries around the world.

"It will be a valuable opportunity for Pakistan to foster dialogue on the most pressing global challenges facing the world today," the Minister stated.

He said that the current government has strengthened the economy, which had been crippled in the previous government.

Highlighting the significance of the recently launched 5 year plan, Uraan Pakistan, Minister Iqbal stated that the government's highest priority area is export expansion.

"The government is now in full momentum to reach the target of increasing exports from $30 billion to $100bn over the next decade, a cornerstone of its long-term economic strategy," stressed the Minister.

Minister Iqbal also reflected on the government's achievements during its previous tenure, including the development of Gwadar into a vibrant city, securing a transmission line from Iran for Balochistan, and deepening Gwadar Port to accommodate larger vessels.

However, he lamented the setbacks caused by interruptions in these initiatives over recent years.

He further said that under the new 5-year plan, the government is working to finish all infrastructure and connectivity projects without any delays and expand access to the internet, education, and healthcare to all underprivileged parts of Pakistan.

The Minister stated that climate change is one of the highest priority areas for the government at present.

He added that Pakistan is aiming to develop the local climate finance ecosystem and ensure equitable participation in climate initiatives, as evident from the country's strong representation at COP29.

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