Focus on development cooperation, education, climate change, and economic reforms
A high-level US Congressional delegation met with Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal in Islamabad on Saturday to discuss strengthening Pakistan-US bilateral relations, particularly in areas of economic cooperation, education, and climate resilience.
The delegation was led by Representative Jack Bergman, and included Representatives Thomas Suozzi, Jonathan L. Jackson, and senior US officials. Iqbal welcomed the delegation, emphasizing the historical depth and strategic significance of Pakistan’s relationship with the United States.
A Call for a Balanced, Development-Centric Partnership
Highlighting the changing global dynamics, Iqbal underscored the importance of establishing a new equilibrium in bilateral ties based on mutual trust, ground realities, and a shared focus on development.
He pointed out the socio-economic impact Pakistan continues to face due to its frontline role in two US-led regional conflicts, including the burden of hosting over 3.5 million refugees, widespread narcotics and arms proliferation, and the rise of extremism.
“There’s a need to understand the challenges Pakistan inherited as a result of regional instability,” he noted.
Vision for the Future: Education, IT, Climate, and SMEs
The minister outlined his government’s priorities under the ‘5Es Framework’, focusing on:
- Exports
- E-Pakistan (Digital Transformation)
- Environment & Climate Change
- Energy & Infrastructure
- Equity & Empowerment
He highlighted initiatives like the “Uraan Pakistan” program, and stressed the need for greater cooperation in education, climate change, information technology, and SME development.
Drawing from his own academic journey in the US, Iqbal emphasized the transformative power of American education and proposed expanding the ‘Pak-US Knowledge Corridor’, including the establishment of US university campuses in Pakistan and joint academic programs to develop a skilled workforce.
He praised the Fulbright Scholarship Program for enabling thousands of Pakistani students to access world-class education and contribute to national development.
Green Revolution 2.0 & Climate Resilience
Recalling the historic Green Revolution of the 1960s, enabled by US support, Iqbal proposed a “Green Revolution 2.0” to promote climate-smart agriculture. He also urged deeper collaboration in climate resilience and disaster preparedness, referencing the devastating 2022 floods, which caused losses exceeding $30 billion.
IT and Investment Opportunities
Describing information technology as Pakistan’s most promising sector, Iqbal noted the country’s emergence as the third-largest supplier of freelance IT talent worldwide. He welcomed interest from US tech firms and urged the delegation to facilitate private sector engagement to unlock investment opportunities.
He emphasized that political stability, policy continuity, and a reform-driven economic agenda are essential to Pakistan’s long-term growth and investor confidence.
US Delegation Response
The US delegation praised Minister Iqbal’s vision and leadership, describing him as a champion of the values the United States supports in Pakistan. They recognized Pakistan’s economic potential, expressed strong interest in private sector partnerships, and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening strategic cooperation.
The delegation also invited Iqbal to a seminar in Washington, D.C., on April 30, focused on promoting Pak-US relations, and highlighted the upcoming symposium at the Library of Congress as a valuable step toward enhancing bilateral engagement.
In response, Iqbal welcomed the revival of Congressional exchanges, calling it a positive signal of renewed dialogue, and reiterated Pakistan’s readiness to work with the US to build a sustainable, inclusive, and forward-looking partnership.
