Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, addressed an event organized by USAID in Islamabad on Monday, celebrating the longstanding U.S. infrastructure development support to Pakistan. The event was graced by US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome and USAID Mission Director Veeraya (Kate) Somvongsir, who highlighted the achievements of the US Pakistan relationship spanning seven decades and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation. Speaking on the occasion, Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the enduring strategic importance of US Pakistan ties. He said, “It is both an honor and a privilege to address this event today. We gather here to celebrate the significant contributions of the United States to Pakistan’s infrastructure projects, reflect on the enduring strategic importance of our bilateral relationship, and outline a roadmap for future cooperation under the leadership of the new US President.” The Minister highlighted the historical foundation of US Pakistan relations, which began with defense cooperation and has evolved into a robust development partnership. He stressed the importance of fostering a new dimension of collaboration focused on education, infrastructure, and economic development to address emerging global challenges. Quoting Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, he said, “Pakistan is not afraid of the world. We will establish friendly and cordial relations with all nations, particularly the United States, which has always stood for justice and humanity.” The Minister lauded the transformational impact of United State supported infrastructure projects in Pakistan. He cited the iconic Mangla and Tarbela dams, which continue to serve as lifelines for the agriculture and energy sectors, and US funded initiatives in healthcare, education, and transportation, which have significantly improved the quality of life for millions. He emphasized that these projects not only address Pakistan’s immediate needs but also lay the foundation for long-term sustainable growth. Minister Ahsan Iqbal also highlighted the US Pakistan Knowledge Corridor, launched during the 2013-18 PMLN government, as a critical initiative to strengthen academic and research collaborations. He acknowledged the Fulbright Scholarship program, the largest in the world for Pakistan, as a transformative opportunity that has empowered thousands of Pakistanis to contribute meaningfully to national progress. The Minister 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 such as IT, agriculture, and manufacturing. He stressed that Pakistan, with its strategic location at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, is a natural partner for the United States in promoting regional connectivity and economic integration. While discussing future cooperation, the Minister emphasized the importance of addressing global challenges such as climate change, energy sustainability, and food security. He called for collaborative research in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and modern infrastructure to build a more resilient future. He also highlighted the need to engage the vibrant Pakistani diaspora in the United States to strengthen cultural, academic, and economic ties. Minister Ahsan Iqbal expressed optimism about revitalizing the US Pakistan partnership under the new US administration, stating that mutual respect and constructive engagement are key to addressing shared challenges and unlocking new opportunities for growth. He concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to building a future of peace, prosperity, and progress in collaboration with the United States. The event served as a testament to the strong and enduring US Pakistan relationship and reiterated both nations’ shared vision for a prosperous and stable future.
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