USA.
Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, emphasized Pakistan’s potential as a pivotal economic corridor during a recent three-day visit to Texas. In a series of high-profile engagements, Ambassador Sheikh discussed expanding economic cooperation with Texas leadership, including fields like IT, agriculture, textiles, and sports, positioning Pakistan as a promising partner for global and regional trade.
“With its large market of 250 million people, Pakistan can serve as an economic corridor not only for the region but also for the world’s major economies,” Ambassador Sheikh remarked. The Ambassador met Texas Governor Greg Abbott on the first day, exploring avenues for bilateral collaboration, given Texas’s status as the world’s eighth-largest economy.
Strengthening Pak-US Ties Through Community Engagement and Cultural Exchange
In Houston, Ambassador Sheikh inaugurated the first Pakistan Literature Festival, celebrating Pakistani culture and literature with the International Academy of Letters. He underscored the significance of public diplomacy, art, and literature in fostering deeper Pak-US relations.
Ambassador Sheikh also engaged with leaders of the Ismaili community at the Jamaat Khana in Houston, praising their contributions under the guidance of His Highness Aga Khan. Additionally, he joined Congressman Al Green in a send-off ceremony for two containers of medical equipment bound for Pakistan, acknowledging the humanitarian efforts of the Houston-Karachi Sister City Association and other non-profit organizations involved.
The Ambassador’s schedule included a visit to the Ibn Sina Foundation Clinics, where he received a briefing on healthcare services provided to the underserved community in Greater Houston. His efforts to connect with and honor the contributions of local Pakistani-Americans were well-received by the community.
Expanding Economic Cooperation and Investment Opportunities
In Dallas, Ambassador Sheikh met with Congressman Lance Carter Gooden, discussing bilateral relations, defense cooperation, and mutual perspectives on regional and global affairs. The Ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s trade and investment potential during his meetings with the Pakistan Chamber of Commerce-USA, noting opportunities in sectors such as IT and agriculture and assuring Pakistani-American businesses of the Embassy’s support.
“Our diaspora in the United States plays a pivotal role in strengthening economic ties with the U.S., while also helping counterparts capitalize on opportunities in Pakistan,” he said.
Ambassador Sheikh applauded the Pakistani-American community for their achievements and dedication to promoting a positive image of Pakistan in the U.S., calling them the “enduring link” in Pak-US relations. “A strong Pak-US relationship benefits not only our two countries but also the future generations of our community,” he continued.
The visit, widely covered by Texas media, highlighted Pakistan’s readiness to deepen economic ties with the U.S., leveraging the strength of its diaspora and building long-lasting connections with Texas’s leadership.
