Islamabad (Agencies): Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, emphasized the importance of addressing global challenges such as climate change, energy sustainability, and food security while discussing future cooperation between Pakistan and the United States. Speaking at a USAID event marking longstanding US infrastructure support to Pakistan, he called for collaborative research in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and modern infrastructure to build a resilient future.
Ahsan Iqbal stressed the need to engage the vibrant Pakistani diaspora in the United States to strengthen cultural, academic, and economic ties. He highlighted Pakistan’s strategic location as a natural partner for the US in promoting regional connectivity and economic integration.
Expressing optimism about revitalizing the US-Pakistan partnership under the new US administration, he emphasized mutual respect and constructive engagement as keys to addressing shared challenges and unlocking new growth opportunities. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to building a future of peace, prosperity, and progress in collaboration with the United States.
The minister lauded the transformational impact of US-supported infrastructure projects in Pakistan, such as the Mangla and Tarbela dams, and US-funded initiatives in healthcare, education, and transportation. He also recalled the US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor and the Fulbright Scholarship program as critical initiatives for strengthening academic and research collaborations.
Ahsan Iqbal underscored the potential for expanding bilateral trade, which exceeded $6.5 billion in 2023, and called for enhanced market access and joint ventures in key sectors like information technology, agriculture, and manufacturing.
US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome and USAID Mission Director Veeraya (Kate) Somvongsir also highlighted the achievements of the US-Pakistan relationship over the past seven decades and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation.