Pakistan, US explore new trade avenues amid warming ties

FinMin seeks collaboration in IT, minerals and agriculture during meeting with US Chargé d'Affaires Elizabeth Horst


Web Desk July 28, 2025 1 min read
US Chargé d'Affaires Ms. Elizabeth Horst calls on Finance Minister Aurangzeb in Islamabad on July 28. Photo: Radio Pakistan

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United States Chargé d'Affaires Elizabeth Horst met Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb in Islamabad on Monday to discuss economic cooperation and reaffirm the strengthening trajectory of bilateral ties, Radio Pakistan reported.

According to a finance ministry statement, the meeting provided “an opportunity to exchange views on matters of mutual interest” and underscored growing collaboration between Pakistan and the US.

Aurangzeb thanked the US for its long-standing support of Pakistan’s economic development, particularly the backing for macroeconomic stability achieved over the past 18 months.

He also recalled his recent visit to Washington, DC, where he held what he described as “productive meetings” with US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer.

The minister said those discussions had contributed to a “healthy momentum in bilateral engagement”. “The United States remains Pakistan’s largest trading partner,” Aurangzeb said, while expressing Pakistan’s interest in expanding cooperation beyond traditional sectors.

He noted growing potential in information technology, minerals, and agriculture as key areas for mutually beneficial investment and collaboration.

Aurangzeb also briefed the visiting diplomat on Pakistan’s improving macroeconomic indicators, including recent sovereign rating upgrades and renewed investor confidence. He outlined key reforms being undertaken in taxation and energy aimed at fostering long-term, sustainable growth.

The minister further shared updates on Pakistan’s successful participation in Middle Eastern capital markets and plans to issue the country’s first Panda bond, along with upcoming ventures in the Euro and US dollar markets.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepen cooperation and build on the progress made in recent months.

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