By Adnan Hameed
TWA
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The U.S. Mission in Pakistan hosted a distinguished reception to commemorate the 248th anniversary of American independence. Ambassador Donald Blome welcomed Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, along with other notable dignitaries to celebrate this historic occasion.
In his remarks, Ambassador Blome highlighted the deep-rooted and multifaceted U.S.-Pakistan partnership, reflecting on collaborative initiatives in various sectors:
Partners in Energy: “From the Mangla and Tarbela to the Gomal Zam, Satpara, and Golen Gol dams, these vital projects provide clean, affordable energy, prevent water shortages, and mitigate flooding. Today, we are upgrading Mangla and Tarbela with new GE turbines, which will last another 50 years – a testament to our century-long commitment to Pakistan, funded directly and not through loans.”
Partners in Economy: “American businesses have been integral to Pakistan’s development since its independence. These firms employ Pakistanis at all levels, equipping them with top-tier technical and management skills, who then establish and lead global enterprises.”
Partners in Healthcare: “The United States remains a steadfast supporter of Pakistan’s healthcare system. In May 2024, we launched a groundbreaking initiative with the Sindh government, investing $9 million to combat tuberculosis.”
Partners in Prosperity: “Our partnership is built on a foundation of mutual prosperity and security. As we celebrate Independence Day, we also celebrate our shared journey towards greater prosperity and security for both nations.”
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, honored as the Chief Guest, addressed diplomats, business leaders, and academics, emphasizing the resilience and importance of the 76-year Pak-U.S. partnership. He highlighted collaborative efforts in education, trade, IT, disaster mitigation, and the social sector, calling for the deepening of these ties for mutual benefit.
Minister Iqbal also touched on critical human rights issues, urging the U.S. to support peaceful resolutions in Gaza and endorse the right of self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the press note, he expressed gratitude for U.S. support in advancing Pakistan’s education, IT infrastructure, agricultural technology, and disaster mitigation efforts, particularly in the aftermath of the 2022 floods. Reflecting on the 1960s Green Revolution, he called for a new Green Revolution 2.0 to ensure food and climate security.
Minister Iqbal announced that bilateral trade between Pakistan and the U.S. exceeded $12 billion in 2023, with Pakistani exports reaching $6 billion. He expressed ambitions to diversify trade in textiles, agriculture, technology, and expand IT services and pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. market. Highlighting Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, he encouraged start-up collaborations, venture capital investments, and innovation hubs to drive technological advancements.
Drawing on his personal experience at The Wharton School, Minister Iqbal praised American universities for their role in economic development through innovation and entrepreneurship. He also mentioned the U.S.-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor initiative, aiming to train 10,000 Ph.D. scholars in top U.S. universities over ten years.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Iqbal quoted Martin Luther King Jr.: “We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now,” and wished prosperity, progress, and peace to the people of the United States on behalf of the people and government of Pakistan.
The event underscored the ongoing commitment of both nations to foster strong diplomatic relations and collaboratively address global challenges.
