The U.S. Political Counsellor, Ms. Shelley Saxen, called on Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani at Parliament House, Islamabad. The meeting was marked by a comprehensive exchange of views on Pakistan–United States bilateral relations, regional developments, and avenues for enhanced parliamentary cooperation.
Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani underscored that Pakistan’s relations with the United States constitute an important pillar of its foreign policy, describing the relationship as longstanding, broad-based, and anchored in the principles of mutual respect, shared objectives, and forward-looking cooperation.
The Chairman Senate noted with satisfaction the positive momentum generated in recent months through high-level engagements between the leadership of the two countries.
Highlighting the strong economic and trade partnership, Chairman Senate stated that the United States remains one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners and the biggest destination for Pakistani exports. He also acknowledged the robust U.S. investment footprint in Pakistan, noting that nearly 80 U.S. enterprises operate in the country, generating employment for an estimated 120,000–150,000 people. The Chairman Senate invited fresh U.S. investments in priority sectors including agriculture, information technology, mines and minerals, and energy, and emphasized Pakistan’s desire to make tangible progress through sustained institutional engagement in areas such as trade, investment, IT, energy and minerals, health, education, and agriculture.
On regional peace and stability, Syed YousufRazaGilani appreciated the proactive role of President Donald Trump and his Administration in facilitating a ceasefire understanding between Pakistan and India following the military standoff in April–May 2025. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to constructive relations with all regional countries, while affirming that India’s aggressive posture and strategic ambitions leave Pakistan with no option but to safeguard its strategic and conventional capabilities.
