During an international conference titled ‘Strengthening Pakistan-US Relations,’ hosted by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) in collaboration with Beaconhouse National University (BNU) Lahore, US Ambassador Donald Blome praised Pakistan’s contributions to counterterrorism. He emphasized the US’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in several areas, including addressing regional threats, economic collaboration, renewable energy, climate management, and education.
Ambassador Blome underscored the significance of the US-Pakistan relationship, highlighting the long-standing partnership and cooperation between the two nations. He noted Washington’s recognition of Pakistan’s potential, particularly its vibrant young population and economic opportunities, and emphasized that the partnership extends beyond security to include substantial investments in health, trade, and development.
Additional Secretary (Americas) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mariam Madiha Aftab, described the US-Pakistan relationship as dynamic and multifaceted, encompassing health, trade, defense, and energy security. She stressed the importance of economic collaboration, security cooperation, educational exchanges, and climate change initiatives.
Ms. Aftab also addressed regional dynamics, emphasizing the need for the US to play a key role in fostering peace and stability and advocating for a peaceful resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions and the will of the Kashmiri people.
Ambassador Mansoor Khan, Director of the Beaconhouse Centre for Policy Research (BCPR), highlighted the complex nature of Pakistan-US relations, including political, security, defense, and economic ties. He announced the introduction of a new undergraduate course on Pakistan-US relations at BNU.
Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director of the Centre for Strategic Perspectives at ISSI, acknowledged the US’s significant contributions to Pakistan’s development in education, healthcare, and climate change. She stressed the need for mutual respect and cooperation to address contemporary challenges and opportunities.
ISSI Director General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood provided a comprehensive overview of the historical and current dynamics of Pakistan-US relations. He noted the evolving nature of the partnership, shifting from a security-centric focus to include trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people exchanges. He also highlighted the cyclical nature of bilateral relations influenced by external factors and regional developments.
Emphasizing realistic expectations, Ambassador Mahmood called for a greater focus on Pakistan’s historical role and potential in the emerging global order, as well as a responsive approach from the US regarding regional concerns, particularly the impact of the US-India strategic partnership on Pakistan’s security within the ‘Indo-Pacific’ framework.
The inaugural session concluded with Chairman of the Board of Governors ISSI, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, presenting shields to the chief guest and keynote speaker.
