ISLAMABAD, Jul 24 (Alliance News): The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in partnership with Beaconhouse National University (BNU) Lahore, hosted a pivotal International Conference on July 24, 2024, titled “Strengthening Pakistan-U.S. Relations.”
The event gathered distinguished diplomats, practitioners, and academics from both nations to delve into the evolving dynamics of the bilateral relationship.
U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the deep-rooted partnership between the U.S. and Pakistan. He highlighted the U.S.’s recognition of Pakistan’s potential, particularly its vibrant youth and emerging economic opportunities.
Ambassador Blome praised Pakistan’s role in counter-terrorism and reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to supporting Pakistan across various domains, including regional security, economic collaboration, renewable energy, climate management, and education. He emphasized that the partnership extends beyond security concerns to include significant investments in health, trade, and development.
Ambassador Mariam Madiha Aftab, Additional Secretary (Americas) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spoke on the multifaceted nature of the U.S.-Pakistan relationship. She outlined the importance of collaboration in health, trade, defense, and energy security, and stressed the need for economic cooperation, security collaboration, educational exchanges, and climate initiatives.
Ambassador Aftab also addressed regional issues, urging the U.S. to play a crucial role in fostering peace and stability, and called for a peaceful resolution to the Jammu & Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions and the will of the Kashmiri people.
Ambassador Mansoor Khan, Director of the Beaconhouse Center for Policy Research (BCPR), underscored the diverse aspects of the Pakistan-U.S. relationship, including political, security, defense, and economic ties. He announced the launch of a new undergraduate course on Pakistan-U.S. relations at BNU, aiming to educate students on the complexities of this important partnership.
Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director of the Centre for Strategic Perspectives at ISSI, highlighted the significant contributions of the U.S. to Pakistan’s development in sectors such as education, healthcare, and climate change. She called for mutual respect and cooperation to address contemporary challenges and opportunities.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, provided a comprehensive overview of the historical and current dynamics of Pakistan-U.S. relations. He noted the evolving nature of the partnership, with a shift from security-focused concerns to include trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people exchanges.
Ambassador Mahmood discussed the cyclical pattern of bilateral relations, influenced by external factors and regional developments, and called for realistic expectations.
He emphasized the need for the U.S. to consider Pakistan’s historical role and interests, particularly in light of the U.S.-India strategic partnership and the broader Indo-Pacific context.
He also highlighted the importance of navigating U.S.-China competition and promoting cooperation over confrontation, citing past collaborative successes such as Sino-U.S. rapprochement and post-9/11 counter-terrorism efforts.
The conference concluded with Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the Board of Governors at ISSI, presenting shields to the chief guests and keynote speakers.
The event ended with a group photograph, marking a successful and insightful dialogue on enhancing Pakistan-U.S. relations in a complex global environment.
International Conference Highlights Strengthening Pakistan-U.S. Relations Amid Evolving Global Dynamics”
Focus Keyphrase: Pakistan-U.S. Relations Conference
Tags: Pakistan-U.S. Relations, International Conference, ISSI, Beaconhouse National University, U.S. Embassy, Donald Blome, Mariam Madiha Aftab, Mansoor Khan, Neelum Nigar, Sohail Mahmood, Diplomacy, Bilateral Cooperation, Global Dynamics
Slug:
