Ties with US important pillar of foreign policy: Gilani

ISLAMABAD: Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Monday said that Pakistan’s relations with the United States (US) constitute an important pillar of its foreign policy, underlining the longstanding and broad-based partnership between the two countries.

“Our bilateral relationship is on an upward trajectory, and it is important to maintain the current positive momentum,” Senate chairman said during a meeting with Natalie Baker, Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy, at the Parliament House.

He said that mutual trust, respect, and shared interests should be the defining principles of Pakistan-US relations. “We wish to further deepen and broaden this relationship,” he said, calling for enhanced people-to-people contacts and increased interaction at political, parliamentary, business, education, and cultural levels.

Gilani highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to encourage US companies to explore new areas for investment, noting that the United States remains Pakistan’s largest export market. “We are keen to diversify our bilateral trade relationship with the US, with a special focus on boosting trade and business cooperation,” he said.

Recalling his tenure as prime minister, Gilani mentioned his official visit to the United States in July 2008 and productive meetings with then-President George W. Bush. He also noted his discussions with President Barack Obama on the sidelines of the 2012 Nuclear Security Summit in Seoul, which further strengthened bilateral ties.

Gilani also highlighted the strong defense partnership between the two countries, particularly Pakistan’s role as a frontline state during the global war on terror. “We must continue to explore new avenues for trade and investment, leveraging our unique strengths to drive growth and innovation,” he said.

He welcomed the new US administration under President Donald Trump and expressed hope for further improvement in bilateral relations under the new government. Gilani also appreciated US assistance in Pakistan’s flood relief and other humanitarian efforts.

Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker thanked Senate Chairman Gilani for the warm welcome. She affirmed that Pakistan remains an important partner of the United States and conveyed President Trump’s appreciation for Pakistan’s role in counter-terrorism efforts. She lauded Gilani for promoting peace and stability, describing him as a “champion of peace.” Baker also emphasized the need to broaden trade and economic ties and extended her best wishes to the Senate chairman.