WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden has emphasised that the enduring partnership between Pakistan and the US is crucial for global and regional stability.
Biden highlighted this important aspect of the bilateral relationship on Wednesday as he received a letter of credentials from Pakistan’s new envoy, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, beginning his term as the country’s 30th ambassador to the United States.
The formal ceremony took place at Blair House, the official presidential guesthouse, and was attended by many diplomats and U.S. government officials.
“Our enduring partnership is critical to global and regional stability,” Biden said in a brief address. He reiterated the U.S. commitment to work with Pakistan to address major challenges including climate change, security threats and health issues.
Biden also praised U.S.-Pakistan cooperation on counterterrorism and stressed the importance of building shared interests in security, trade, investment and economic growth.
The move to strengthen and develop bilateral ties comes after the United States imposed sanctions on three Chinese and Pakistani companies for supporting Pakistan’s missile program. The State Department defended the decision on Tuesday, arguing that the two countries’ partnership cannot thwart such sanctions.
In his address, Ambassador Sheikh conveyed greetings from the President, Prime Minister and people of Pakistan and underscored the deep-rooted partnership between the two countries. He also highlighted continued investments in the bilateral relationship, particularly in areas such as climate change, energy, health, trade and investment.
“Pakistan-US economic partnership is at the heart of our engagement. The US remains the largest destination for Pakistan’s exports,” Sheikh said.
He also expressed Pakistan’s readiness to expand economic ties with the United States by welcoming investments in alternative energy, green technology, industry, digital platforms and higher education.
He highlighted the vital role of Pakistani diaspora in the US as a vital bridge connecting the two countries and called for a systematic dialogue to enhance cooperation in both security and non-security areas.
The ceremony represents a renewed focus on deepening ties and addressing mutual challenges through enhanced cooperation and strategic dialogue.
Published in Dawn on September 20, 2024
