Opportunities exist to enhance Pak-US partnership beyond security: Murad

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has said that Pakistan and the United share many values, such as freedom, democracy, decolonisation, and economic liberalism.

“Recently, Pakistan was a frontline partner against the war on terror in the aftermath of 9/11.” This he said while speaking at a reception which American Consul General Conrad Tribble hosted on Wednesday evening to celebrate the 248th anniversary of the US independence at the consulate.

The chief minister said that he was glad to speak about the important relationship between Pakistan and the United States. “As we gather to celebrate this momentous event, we also reflect on the bonds that unite our two nations—Pakistan and the United States—and the journey we have undertaken together over the years,” he said.

According to Shah, the economic partnership between our two countries has grown significantly in recent years. In the 2021-2022 fiscal year, direct US investment in Pakistan increased by 50 per cent, reaching its highest level in over a decade, the CM said and added the US firms have a strong presence in Pakistan, with over 80 wholly or majority-owned US subsidiary firms registered. “These companies have collectively invested over $1.5 billion in Pakistan and generated approximately $3 billion in annual revenue,” he disclosed.

The CM said that since the US was our largest trading partner, our growth was invariably tied to the US economy. He recalled that in 2023, the trade between Pakistan and the United States reached a remarkable $6.6 billion. In March 2024, the United States exports were of $253 million to Pakistan and imports were of $428 million. Pakistan’s top imports from the US included raw cotton, scrap iron, and aircraft parts. The US imported items like household linens, women’s suits, and sweaters from Pakistan.

Talking of the notable success stories of the economic partnership was the energy sector. “American companies have played a pivotal role in supporting Pakistan’s energy infrastructure, contributing to the development of renewable energy projects and helping to address our energy challenges,” he said and added that these initiatives not only enhanced energy security but also promoted sustainable development, reflecting our shared commitment to a greener future.

Shah said that the relationship between the US and Pakistan has experienced challenges in the past, but we are committed to working together to navigate the changing geopolitical landscape. The US and Pakistan have identified common ground in areas such as counterterrorism.

As we look to the future, the CM said, there are numerous opportunities to enhance the US-Pakistan partnership beyond security. “We can collaborate in areas such as technology, education, climate change, and public health,” he said.

The US and Pakistan have a long history together, and though challenges persist, the CM said he is optimistic about the path forward. He added that by focusing on areas of mutual interest and shared values, we could build a more stable and prosperous relationship for generations to come.

He expressed gratitude to the United States for its ongoing partnership and friendship with Pakistan. “As we celebrate American independence today, let us also celebrate the enduring bonds between our two nations,” he concluded.