Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, addressed an event organized by USAID in Islamabad on Monday, underscoring the longstanding U.S. support for infrastructure development in Pakistan. The event, attended by US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome and USAID Mission Director Veeraya (Kate) Somvongsir, celebrated the achievements of the US Pakistan relationship over seven decades and emphasized a commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation.

According to Press Information Department, Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the historical foundation of US Pakistan relations, which began with defense cooperation and has evolved into a robust development partnership. He discussed the importance of fostering collaboration focused on education, infrastructure, and economic development to address emerging global challenges. The Minister praised US-supported infrastructure projects in Pakistan, including the Mangla and Tarbela dams, and noted the significance of initiatives in healthcare, education, and transportation.

Minister Iqbal also emphasized the importance of the US Pakistan Knowledge Corridor, a critical initiative for academic and research collaborations, and the Fulbright Scholarship program. He pointed out the potential for expanding bilateral trade, which exceeded $6.5 billion in 2023, and called for enhanced market access and joint ventures in sectors such as IT, agriculture, and manufacturing.

The Minister stressed the importance of addressing global challenges like climate change, energy sustainability, and food security through collaborative research. He highlighted the role of the Pakistani diaspora in the United States in strengthening cultural, academic, and economic ties. Expressing optimism about revitalizing the US Pakistan partnership under the new US administration, Minister Iqbal reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to building a future of peace, prosperity, and progress in collaboration with the United States.