WASHINGTON: Pakistan remains an important partner for the United States (US) in South and Central Asia, with Washington aiming to expand trade, economic cooperation, and security ties, Assistant Secretary of State Paul Kapur told Congress on Wednesday.
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Speaking before the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Sub-committee on South and Central Asia, Kapur highlighted growing bilateral cooperation, saying the two countries are working together to leverage Pakistan’s critical mineral resources by combining US government seed financing with private sector expertise. He also noted expanding trade in energy and agriculture, alongside ongoing counter-terrorism collaboration to combat internal security threats and transnational dangers.
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During a question-and-answer session, lawmakers raised concerns over militancy, Pakistan’s security strategy, and broader regional dynamics. Kapur clarified that while individual members of South and Central Asian militant groups could be present in the US, there was no evidence of organised groups operating within the country. He cautioned that detecting small numbers of individuals embedded in the general population remains challenging.
The discussion also addressed India’s role in US strategy toward China. Kapur argued that a strong, independent India serves US strategic interests by constraining China’s dominance in the Indo-Pacific. He further said India’s economic and military growth limits Beijing’s ability to expand influence, particularly through initiatives like the Belt and Road.
Lawmakers from both parties stressed the importance of a broad-based, values-driven US approach in the region. Sub-committee Chairman Bill Huizenga highlighted the need for partnerships and economic engagement, while Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove warned that recent India-Pakistan tensions and the situation in Afghanistan underscore the vital role of US diplomacy.
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Kapur also addressed Afghan resettlement, confirming that the US is offering financial assistance to facilitate voluntary returns from Camp As Sayliyah in Qatar, where more than 1,100 Afghans have been held since early 2025. Around 150 individuals have accepted the payments, and the US is not forcibly repatriating anyone, he said.
The hearing reflected bipartisan interest in strengthening US engagement in South Asia while balancing security, economic, and human rights concerns in the region.