Gilani praised the Pakistani diaspora in the United States for its vibrant contributions to fostering mutual understanding and highlighted the significance of educational exchanges in strengthening bilateral ties.

Chairman of the Pakistan Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, reaffirmed the importance of Pakistan’s relationship with the United States, describing it as a cornerstone of the country’s foreign policy. During a meeting with Natalie Baker, Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy, at the Parliament House on Monday, Gilani highlighted the enduring and broad-based partnership between the two nations.

“Our bilateral relationship is on an upward trajectory, and it is important to maintain the current positive momentum,” Chairman Gilani stated. He underscored the principles of mutual trust, respect, and shared interests as the foundation for Pakistan-US relations, emphasizing the need to deepen ties through people-to-people contacts and collaboration across political, parliamentary, business, education, and cultural platforms.

Gilani pointed to Pakistan’s efforts to encourage US companies to invest in new sectors, noting that the United States is already Pakistan’s largest export market. “We are keen to diversify our bilateral trade relationship with the US, with a special focus on boosting trade and business cooperation,” he said.

Reflecting on regional dynamics, Gilani reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fostering constructive relations with neighboring countries, despite existing challenges. Recalling his tenure as Prime Minister, he highlighted his official visit to the United States in 2008, where he met with then-President George W. Bush, and his 2012 discussions with President Barack Obama at the Nuclear Security Summit in Seoul, which strengthened bilateral ties.

Robust defence partnership

Gilani commended the United States for its economic and developmental contributions to Pakistan, stressing the importance of diversifying cooperation in areas like climate change, energy transition, water management, and climate-smart agriculture. “We must continue to explore new avenues for trade and investment, leveraging our unique strengths to drive growth and innovation,” he added.

Gilani also acknowledged the robust defence partnership between the two nations, particularly Pakistan’s critical role as a frontline state during the global war on terror. He appreciated US assistance in flood relief efforts and humanitarian aid, expressing hope for continued collaboration under the new administration of President Donald Trump.

In his remarks, Gilani praised the Pakistani diaspora in the United States for its vibrant contributions to fostering mutual understanding and highlighted the significance of educational exchanges in strengthening bilateral ties. He expressed optimism for sustained diplomatic collaboration and expanded cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker thanked Chairman Gilani for the warm reception, describing Pakistan as an important partner of the United States. She conveyed President Trump’s appreciation for Pakistan’s role in counter-terrorism efforts and commended Gilani’s leadership in promoting peace and stability. “You are a true champion of peace,” she remarked. Baker emphasised the need to broaden trade and economic ties between the two nations and expressed her best wishes to Chairman Gilani.