ISLAMABAD – US-Pakistan ties are set for new chapter, with key trade agreement under discussion and expanded cooperation in critical minerals, energy security, and investment signaling a stronger strategic and economic partnership ahead of the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.
Speaking on the Pakistan Observer podcast, US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker said Washington and Islamabad are making progress across key sectors, calling the proposed trade agreement landmark initiative that could redefine bilateral economic engagement.
Baker said US economic priorities under President Donald Trump. focused on making America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. align closely with Pakistan’s development agenda, creating fresh momentum for deeper cooperation.
She identified trade, critical minerals development, energy security, and long-standing security collaboration as the main pillars of the evolving partnership. According to Baker, both countries are also strengthening cooperation in counterterrorism, law enforcement, and military-to-military engagements, reflecting a relationship that continues to expand across strategic and economic fronts.
Baker pointed to decades-long presence of globally recognized companies including Google, McDonald’s, KFC, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, IBM, and Cisco. Several of these firms, she noted, have been operating in Pakistan for nearly eight decades, contributing not only through investment but also by supporting local communities, workforce development, education, and healthcare initiatives.
She cited the recent inauguration of a new KFC restaurant in Nowshera as a powerful example of inclusive investment. The outlet employs graduates of the Deaf Reach School system, a nationwide educational and vocational training initiative supported by KFC for deaf children from early childhood through secondary education. “There were a number of deaf employees there,” Baker said. “Even though they don’t speak with their voices, they speak in other ways,” highlighting the impact of corporate-led social inclusion and skills development.
Looking ahead, Baker expressed confidence that more American companies will invest in Pakistan while Pakistani businesses expand their footprint in the United States. She identified energy security and critical minerals as priority sectors capable of unlocking substantial bilateral investment and long-term economic growth. She also felt optimistic about the restoration of direct flights between Pakistan and the United States, saying such connectivity would significantly boost tourism, trade, business travel, and people-to-people exchanges.
As Islamabad and Washington prepare to celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2027, the proposed landmark trade agreement, growing investment, expanding cooperation in strategic sectors, and renewed business confidence point to a revitalized partnership with broad economic opportunities for both nations.
“We’ll continue to expand trade and investment,” Baker said. “We’ll build together.”
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