Prioritising economic agenda in foreign policy towards US, China and EU discussed

Islamabad:The Faculty of Social Sciences at the National University of Modern Languages, in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission under the National Research Programme for Universities (NRPU), inaugurated a two-day international conference titled ‘Prioritising Economic Agenda in Pakistan’s Foreign Policy Towards the United States, China, and the European Union (EU).’

The conference brought together policymakers, academicians, and thought leaders to address the critical role of economic diplomacy in reshaping Pakistan’s foreign policy priorities. Executive Director of the Sustainable Development Policy Institute, Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri graced the occasion as the chief guest.

Former Minister of State and Chairman of Pakistan’s Board of Investment, Haroon Sharif delivered the keynote address. In the Inaugural session, welcoming remarks were delivered by DG NUML, Brig. Shahzad Munir emphasised Pakistan’s transformative potential, stating, “Pakistan is at a defining moment in its history.

By setting clear priorities and implementing sound economic policies, we can unlock a brighter future”. Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Jean Monnet Chair, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Riaz Shad outlined the conference objectives, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for Pakistan in the global economic landscape.

Haroon Sharif underscored the importance of redefining economic diplomacy. He called for a pragmatic approach to trade and investment, stating, “Selling geo-location and cheap labour is no longer viable.

Pakistan must focus on value addition, creating competitive exports, and leveraging its human capital. ”He identified key challenges and fault lines, including low productivity, no trend of value addition to the products, lack of export competitiveness, and insufficient job creation.

He urged policymakers to adopt a proactive stance, bringing concrete deals to the table, modernising infrastructure and making ports independent to boost regional connectivity. The chief guest, Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri emphasised the need for preparedness in economic diplomacy, particularly in understanding the nuances of global powers and their priorities.

He highlighted upcoming challenges, such as the European Union’s 2026 carbon tax policy, and stressed the importance of aligning Pakistan’s supply chains with global environmental standards.

Dr. Suleri also recommended engaging with the United States on debt sustainability and focusing on the evolving dynamics of geo-economic diplomacy, especially in light of potential shifts in global leadership.

He also remarked that Pakistan must also understand the red lines of the US, China and EU before setting an economic agenda in its Foreign Policy. The first session of the conference focused on ‘Prioritising Economic Agenda in Pakistan-US Relations.’

Experts discussed challenges, opportunities, and policy lessons to strengthen economic ties. Dr Saira Aquil from QAU, Dr Noor Fatima from IIUI, Dr Ahmed Ijaz Malik from QAU, and Dr Usman W. Chohan from the Centre for Aerospace & Security Studies were among the distinguished speakers.