Washington, March 27: Senior U.S. lawmakers and officials have highlighted the need for deeper and results-oriented relations with Pakistan, referring to the relationship as “complex.”
During a bipartisan seminar hosted by Tom Suozzi and Jack Bergman on Capitol Hill, over 200 policymakers, diplomats, and experts assessed the direction of U.S.-Pakistan relations.
Suozzi stated, “At a time when our country and the world are feeling increasing division, strengthening ties with crucial partners like Pakistan is more important than ever.” The relationship between the United States and Pakistan has been intricate.
Bergman emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation across divisions. He remarked, “Such unity does not happen by chance. It begins with conversation. It starts with the shared belief that when people come together, exchange ideas openly, and engage respectfully, progress is possible.” He added that handling disagreements “with respect” is essential for sustainable progress.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the U.S., Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, described the relationship as long-term and significant. He noted, “This relationship is undoubtedly one of the most important and impactful partnerships, emerging over nearly eight decades with many successful collaborations. Each time we have come together, its impact has extended beyond bilateral dimensions, benefiting the entire world.”
U.S. Assistant Secretary of State S. Paul Kapoor stated that Washington seeks tangible results. “We want to ensure that goodwill and high-level attention in U.S.-Pakistan bilateral relations translate into concrete benefits for the American and Pakistani people.”
The seminar included panel discussions on security and economic cooperation. Experts considered regional stability, including Pakistan’s relations with India and China, as well as opportunities for enhancing trade and investment.
Michael Kugelman from the Atlantic Council remarked that the partnership is “in a good place,” but needs to become more sustainable over time. Former Ambassador Takir Hussain warned that U.S. policy should move beyond mere appearances. “If America wants good partners, it must create good policies.”
He emphasized that the measure of good policy should not solely be how it looks in Washington.
Security concerns also remained a significant issue. Lisa Curtis warned that Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains “a dangerous and lethal organization,” underscoring U.S. interest in ensuring Pakistan’s stability. Hasan Abbas highlighted the need to strengthen civilian law enforcement to tackle terrorism, organized crime, and cross-border threats.
On the economic front, Sofyan Yousufi mentioned ongoing efforts towards digitization and broader economic reforms in Pakistan but stressed the need for a clear industrial policy to boost exports and foreign currency. Esperanza from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce noted that renewed engagement has opened opportunities for private sector investment and called for resolving bilateral trade issues.
In conclusion, Suozzi stated, “This conference is about learning from the past, understanding the present, and paving the way for a more understanding and cooperative future between our two countries.”
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