Pakistan sees stronger US ties as investment, trade talks progress 

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is expected to attract significant foreign investment in the next three to six months, according to Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, Syed Tariq Fatemi.

He expressed confidence in the country’s economic outlook, citing support from major global lenders. 

According to Geo News, Fatemi described recent meetings with the Trump administration as “comprehensive and friendly,” focusing on strengthening Pakistan-US ties. Despite changes in Washington, he said key bilateral issues remained unchanged. 

He highlighted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s emphasis on economic cooperation, particularly with the US, with trade and investment being top priorities. He noted that Washington’s recognition of Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and economic progress had strengthened relations. 

Fatemi also discussed Pakistan’s counterterrorism commitment, revealing that Islamabad recently captured and handed over Mohammad Sharifullah, alias Jafar, a Daesh-Khorasan operative wanted for the 2021 Kabul airport attack. The arrest, based on CIA intelligence, was welcomed by Washington. 

During his visit to Washington, DC, Fatemi held high-level meetings with US officials, including Acting Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Lisa Kenna and Senior Director for South and Central Asia at the National Security Council Ricky Gill. Talks focused on boosting trade and investment, particularly in textiles and infrastructure. 

He noted that the government’s economic policies had improved key indicators, with institutions like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank acknowledging progress. He stressed the potential for stronger trade ties with the US, which would benefit businesses and regional stability. 

Fatemi also addressed the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, underscoring the historical ties between Pakistan and the US while urging greater American investment in Pakistan’s economy. 

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