Islamabad, Apr 13, 2025: Pakistan and the United States have reiterated their shared resolve to strengthen their longstanding strategic alliance while expanding collaboration in key sectors of mutual interest.
This renewed commitment emerged during a significant meeting between Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal and a US Congressional Delegation (CODEL) led by Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI), accompanied by Representatives Thomas Suozzi and Jonathan Jackson, along with other senior American officials.
Discussions focused on deepening Pakistan-US bilateral cooperation with a special emphasis on development partnerships, economic progress, and future joint initiatives across multiple sectors.
Welcoming the US delegation, Minister Iqbal emphasized the historic and enduring partnership between both nations—grounded in mutual understanding, shared goals, and respect.
He noted that this alliance continues to play a vital role in ensuring peace and stability in an increasingly complex global environment.
Iqbal also stressed the importance of redefining the Pak-US relationship under the current geopolitical realities, advocating for a fresh framework rooted in trust, development goals, and real-world challenges.
He highlighted the social and economic strain Pakistan has endured due to regional conflicts, including hosting over 3.5 million refugees and battling the consequences of extremism and illicit trade.
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Focusing on future cooperation, the minister proposed a renewed emphasis on collaboration in education, technology, renewable energy, climate adaptation, infrastructure, and agriculture.
Citing his own academic journey in the US, Iqbal praised American higher education for producing global leaders and innovators.
He championed initiatives like the Fulbright Program for their transformative impact on Pakistani students.
To further enhance educational ties, Iqbal suggested launching a “Pak-US Knowledge Corridor” and establishing campuses of leading American universities in Pakistan, ensuring full governmental support for such endeavors.
He stressed that investing in higher education and joint research is key to developing skilled professionals vital for Pakistan’s sustainable growth.
Referring to the 2022 floods that inflicted over $30 billion in damage, Iqbal urged greater joint efforts in climate resilience and disaster management.
He also called for a “Green Revolution 2.0” in agriculture, driven by innovation, smart farming techniques, and technology exchange—mirroring the success of the 1960s revolution that secured Pakistan’s food independence with US assistance.
This renewed spirit of partnership, rooted in shared priorities and forward-looking strategies, sets the tone for a stronger, more dynamic Pak-US relationship in the years ahead.
