WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, emphasized the enduring strategic importance of Pakistan-U.S. relations, highlighting that robust bilateral ties are essential for regional stability, global cooperation, and addressing pressing international challenges.
He made these remarks during a panel discussion on “The Future of the U.S.-Pakistan Relationship” at the Future Security Forum 2025 in Washington, D.C.
Ambassador Sheikh underscored the longstanding and consequential relationship between Pakistan and the United States, noting that it has historically been characterized by close collaboration on critical global issues, including counterterrorism, climate change, and international peace and security.
He expressed his appreciation to the U.S. leadership, particularly President Trump, for facilitating the ceasefire that brought an end to the 88-hour standoff, describing it as a vital act that averted escalation in a nuclear region home to 1.7 billion people.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to diplomacy, stability, and pragmatic policymaking, the Ambassador highlighted the country’s recurring experience with devastating floods, which have repeatedly destroyed infrastructure, reversed economic gains, and disrupted ongoing development programs across the nation.
Addressing the issue of Indian-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), Ambassador Sheikh reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance and called for international mediation to assist the Kashmiri people in realizing their legitimate right to self-determination in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
On Pakistan’s broader foreign policy approach, the Ambassador emphasized the country’s pursuit of balanced relations with all global partners. He underlined Pakistan’s enduring ties with China, noting that the relationship is rooted in historical continuity and long-term economic cooperation.
Ambassador Sheikh stressed that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor should be understood as an economic initiative aimed at fostering regional connectivity and promoting shared prosperity, rather than a political endeavor.
Turning to regional security, Ambassador Sheikh strongly condemned cross-border terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve to confront and eliminate terrorism while maintaining diplomacy as the preferred instrument for resolving bilateral issues with both Afghanistan and India.
On the issue of Afghan refugees, he clarified that Pakistan is repatriating only undocumented or illegal residents, while ensuring that their return is conducted in a safe, dignified, and humane manner.
Regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Ambassador Sheikh acknowledged and welcomed peace initiatives led by the United States under President Trump’s leadership, expressing optimism for their eventual success in restoring stability and dialogue in the region.
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