Pakistan, US explore new economic and trade opportunities in Hartford meeting

Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, met US Congressman John Larson in Hartford to explore ways to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Islamabad and Washington.

During the discussion, Ambassador Sheikh stressed the importance of Pak-US ties, describing them as crucial not only for the two countries but also for global stability. He pointed to Pakistan’s improving economic outlook, highlighting single-digit inflation, upgraded credit ratings from all major agencies, and ongoing engagement with the International Monetary Fund as signs of progress and opportunity.

Sheikh identified several areas for collaboration, including information technology, where Pakistan offers a 70 percent cost advantage compared to the US and remains competitive in the region. Other potential sectors include US agricultural exports such as cotton and soybeans, energy, and investment opportunities through the Special Investment Facilitation Council.

Congressman Larson welcomed the ambassador’s outreach and expressed support for closer economic ties and stronger people-to-people connections. He noted the pivotal role of the Pakistani-American community, which numbers over one million and is among the higher-income diaspora groups in the United States. Larson described this community as a natural bridge for trade, investment, and political engagement.

Both sides agreed that Pakistani-Americans should play a leading role in realising “Pakistan for Profit” opportunities, benefiting both nations. They pledged to work together to build a sustainable and mutually rewarding partnership for the present and future generations.