Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar on Tuesday called on US companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan, expressing confidence that stronger economic cooperation between the two countries could help increase bilateral trade to $20 billion within the next five years.
Addressing a visiting US Congressional delegation (CODEL) along with a senior American business delegation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dar said Pakistan values its longstanding strategic and economic partnership with the United States and is committed to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, and emerging sectors.
Welcoming the delegates, the deputy prime minister said their visit reflected the strong friendship between Pakistan and the US and highlighted the positive momentum in bilateral relations.
He noted that Pakistan and the United States, being the world’s fifth and third most populous countries respectively, have significant potential to build a mutually beneficial partnership by leveraging their economic strengths and capabilities.
Dar said the US remains Pakistan’s largest single-country export market, with bilateral trade reaching $9.4 billion during the previous fiscal year. He expressed optimism that this volume could be increased to $20 billion over the next five years through enhanced economic engagement.
The deputy prime minister emphasized Pakistan’s support for a balanced and fair trade framework that could create shared economic benefits and contribute to prosperity for both nations.
He highlighted Pakistan’s role as one of the largest importers of US cotton and soybeans, saying the country continues to support American agricultural exports. He added that Pakistan also represents a growing market for US energy products.
Dar said Pakistan’s increasing demand for advanced machinery, modern technology, and capital goods offers major opportunities for American businesses. He added that several leading US companies are already exploring prospects in sectors including technology, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, energy, defence, and manufacturing.
He said Pakistan’s economic reforms and a favourable tariff environment have enhanced the country’s attractiveness as an investment destination.
The deputy prime minister also highlighted the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), describing it as a centralized platform aimed at simplifying investment procedures, accelerating approvals, and improving coordination among government institutions.
He invited US business leaders to continue working with the SIFC to convert available opportunities into sustainable and long-term partnerships.
Dar reaffirmed that Pakistan remains committed to expanding cooperation with the US government, investors, and businesses across various sectors, including IT, artificial intelligence, energy, manufacturing, critical minerals, agriculture, and other emerging industries.
He said the government is prepared to offer competitive incentives to encourage US investment, particularly in special economic zones and technology parks.
The deputy prime minister expressed hope that institutions such as the US Export-Import Bank, US International Development Finance Corporation, and US Trade and Development Agency would continue supporting stronger economic ties between the two countries.
Inviting American investors to participate in Pakistan’s economic growth journey, Dar assured them of full government support and facilitation under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
He said Pakistan’s embassy in Washington and its consulates across the United States would continue assisting American investors and connecting them with relevant Pakistani institutions.
Discussing broader bilateral relations, Dar said Pakistan and the US share common goals of promoting peace, stability, and prosperity. He reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective ways to resolve disputes and ensure regional stability.
The foreign minister said Pakistan’s international standing has improved in recent years and the country is increasingly being recognized as a responsible partner working for regional and global peace.
He encouraged members of the US business delegation to highlight Pakistan’s investment potential in America and help strengthen economic links between the two countries.
Earlier, the visiting US Congressional delegation, comprising Representatives Ryan Zinke and Michael Baumgartner, held talks with Ishaq Dar on enhancing bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
During the meeting, both sides discussed opportunities to increase collaboration in trade, investment, information technology, energy, and other important sectors. The Foreign Office said the talks also emphasized the importance of continued parliamentary engagement to build trust and strengthen the long-standing partnership.
The US lawmakers recognized the valuable contributions of the Pakistani diaspora to America’s economic growth and social development, calling the community an important bridge between Pakistan and the United States.
The meeting also included discussions on regional and global developments, with the visiting representatives appreciating Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
