In an unprecedented event in US congressional history, the Congressional Pakistan Caucus organized a landmark policy symposium focused on the trajectory of US-Pakistan relations. This four-hour gathering took place at the US Capitol and was co-chaired by Congressmen Tom Suozzi (D-NY) and Jack Bergman (R-MI), with support from the Pakistani Embassy.
Entitled “U.S. and Pakistan: Past, Present, and Future,” the symposium attracted more than 200 policymakers, academics, and community leaders who engaged in discussions covering security, economic collaboration, and bilateral cooperation. The panels featured prominent figures such as Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia S. Paul Kapur, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Natalie Baker from the US Embassy in Islamabad.
Congressman Suozzi highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships amid global divisions, stating, “At a time when our country and our world feel increasingly divided, it’s more important than ever to strengthen our relationships with key partners like Pakistan.” Meanwhile, Congressman Bergman acknowledged that while disagreements are inevitable, respectful dialogue and a commitment to finding common ground remain essential.
Ambassador Sheikh underscored Pakistan’s strategic role, emphasizing that US-Pakistan cooperation has historically enhanced regional and global security. He noted, “The partnership is not just historically significant, it has been consequential beyond the bilateral domain, benefiting the wider world.”
Dr. Paul Kapur stressed the need to convert positive diplomatic relations into concrete advantages for both countries. He pointed out that “The positive developments during the Trump administration strengthened economic sectors, including minerals, paving the way for mutually beneficial partnerships.”
The symposium’s agenda included in-depth discussions on security challenges, regional dynamics involving India and China, and economic opportunities. Experts advocated for sustainable economic growth, police reforms, enhanced counterterrorism cooperation, and expanded trade and investment between the US and Pakistan.
Congressman Suozzi summarized the event’s purpose: “The conference is about learning from the past, understanding where we are today, and charting a smarter, more cooperative path forward between our two countries.”
Ambassador Sheikh expressed gratitude to the Congress members for their leadership and highlighted the Pakistani-American community’s vital role in strengthening bilateral relations. He remarked, “Pakistan’s youth, educated and skilled in technology, are ready to contribute to the US economy while fostering strong economic relations.”
Officials and participants concurred on the value of holding such symposiums regularly to reinforce US-Pakistan ties and collaboratively address ongoing challenges.
