WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, hosted a dinner in honor of leading Pakistani business figures visiting under the SelectUSA programme.
Senior US officials attended the event, including Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Paul Kapur. US Consul General in Karachi Charles Goodman also joined the gathering, along with officials from the State Department and the Department of Commerce.
The Pakistani delegation includes 16 representatives from nine companies across diverse sectors. They are visiting the United States to explore investment opportunities and expand economic cooperation.
Ambassador Sheikh welcomed both the Pakistani delegation and American guests at Pakistan House. He emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral economic ties.
Shift Toward Geo-Economic Partnership
The ambassador said Pakistan-US relations are entering a new phase focused on long-term economic collaboration. He noted that ties between the two countries are no longer optional but essential.
He highlighted Pakistan’s shift toward geo-economics as a core pillar of its national security policy. He added that economic stability now drives strategic decision-making.
Referring to recent regional tensions, Sheikh said increased activity at Karachi Port has underscored Pakistan’s geographic and strategic importance. He urged businesses from both countries to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
He reaffirmed that leadership in both nations remains committed to expanding economic engagement and unlocking untapped potential.
US Officials Emphasize Economic Cooperation
Assistant Secretary Paul Kapur said Pakistan-US relations have remained important despite past fluctuations. He described the current period as critical for strengthening ties.
Kapur stressed that while security remains relevant, economic cooperation now holds central importance. He noted that national security increasingly depends on economic strength.
Quoting Secretary Rubio, he said both countries recognize the link between economic and national security. He added that numerous opportunities exist to expand bilateral economic cooperation.
“We must work together as partners to realize these opportunities,” Kapur said. “This is the future of our relationship.”
Growing Trade and Investment Opportunities
US Consul General Charles Goodman thanked the ambassador for hosting the event. He said he has actively worked over the past eight months to promote trade and investment opportunities in Pakistan.
Goodman noted that the SelectUSA programme offers Pakistani businesses access to the US market. He described the ongoing visit as a clear sign of growing economic cooperation.
He added that such exchanges reflect a practical commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through trade and investment.
