Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has termed his recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington D.C. as highly constructive and productive. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing trade, and promoting investment opportunities between Pakistan and the United States. Speaking to UK-based Pakistani journalists in London, PM Shehbaz emphasized the significance of U.S. support in Pakistan’s economic growth and regional stability.
U.S.-Pakistan Bilateral Relations
President Trump’s Assurances
PM Shehbaz highlighted that President Trump assured full support for advancing economic cooperation between the two countries. The U.S. President also appreciated Pakistan’s role in maintaining regional peace and credited Pakistan for contributing to the Pakistan-India ceasefire.
Key Assurances by President Trump:
- Support for Pakistan’s trade and investment sectors.
- Advancement of bilateral economic cooperation.
- Recognition of Pakistan’s role in the ceasefire with India.
Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Defense Agreement
A Strategic Partnership
The Prime Minister clarified that the defense agreement signed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is not directed against any specific country. Instead, it formalizes the long-standing trust and sincerity that both nations have shared for decades.
Highlights of the Defense Agreement:
- Attack on one country will be treated as an attack on both.
- Mutual consultation before responding to any aggression.
- Strengthening of military and strategic ties between the two nations.
| Aspect | Details |
| Agreement Focus | Mutual defense cooperation |
| Directed Against | No country specifically |
| Strategic Objective | To formalize long-standing partnership |
| Response to Aggression | Joint consultation and response |
Pakistan’s Achievements and Challenges
Macroeconomic Stability
Shehbaz Sharif noted that Pakistan has achieved macroeconomic stability and is striving to accelerate growth. Despite the devastation caused by recent floods, the government is determined to restore the economy and build resilience.
Key Government Priorities
Poverty Alleviation: Comprehensive programs to uplift underprivileged communities.
Reducing Unemployment: Job creation through investment-friendly policies.
Attracting Investment: Policies to encourage foreign investors.
Sectoral Development: Focus on agriculture, IT, mines, and minerals.
Harnessing Natural Resources
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of Pakistan’s untapped natural resources. With the backing of friendly nations, Pakistan aims to fully utilize its rich reserves in agriculture, IT, and mineral sectors.
Opportunities in Key Sectors:
- Agriculture: Modern farming techniques to boost exports.
- Information Technology: Expanding software exports and IT services.
- Mines & Minerals: Efficient exploration and development of natural resources.
National Leadership and Unity
Civil-Military Coordination
PM Shehbaz underlined that Pakistan’s political and military leadership is fully aligned. He confirmed regular consultations with Field Marshal Asim Munir on national security, foreign policy, and regional issues.
Commitment to Counterterrorism
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s strong resolve to eliminate terrorism. He praised the sacrifices of Pakistan’s security forces, emphasizing that their contributions will never be forgotten.
Raising Voices for Global Justice
- At the United Nations, Shehbaz Sharif actively raised concerns over the plight of oppressed people.
- Kashmir Issue: Advocacy for the rights of the Kashmiri people.
- Palestine Issue: Reaffirmation of Pakistan’s moral and diplomatic support for Palestinians.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s statements highlight Pakistan’s proactive approach to diplomacy, trade, and national development. With President Trump pledging support for trade and investment, and with strengthened defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia, Pakistan is poised to advance its economic and strategic goals. The government’s commitment to counterterrorism, poverty reduction, and global justice further underlines its vision for a stable and prosperous Pakistan.
