Two influential US congress members have sent a joint letter to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, praising her government’s visionary reforms. They highlighted efforts to modernize the brick kiln industry and combat forced labor, calling these actions a global model. The letter was seen as a key policy message for Pakistan-US relations.
The letter, signed by Thomas R. Suozzi and Jack Bergman, emphasized that Punjab’s mechanized brick kiln system could serve as an example for the region. They noted that over 4.5 million people remain trapped in traditional labor systems, and the reforms could improve human rights protections. Suozzi and Bergman acknowledged briefings from Families Set Free on Punjab’s progress in ending bonded labor.
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US lawmakers said the provincial government’s steps to reform the brick kiln industry are courageous and could attract foreign investment. They praised Punjab for aligning reforms with international responsibilities, improving human rights, and fostering economic growth. The modernization was described as a crucial step toward eliminating forced labor.
The congress members suggested Punjab could serve as a pilot province for broader reforms. They added that these initiatives would boost confidence among US investors and strengthen Pakistan-US economic cooperation. They also stated that such steps would enhance Pakistan’s human rights rankings internationally.
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The letter concluded with full support for CM Maryam Nawaz’s leadership and reforms. US lawmakers affirmed their willingness to cooperate with Punjab in the future. They stressed that ending bonded labor and promoting industrial modernization are historic steps for human dignity and long-term development.