In a first for US congressional history, the Congressional Pakistan Caucus convened a policy symposium at the US Capitol to examine the evolving trajectory of US-Pakistan relations. The event, titled “U.S. and Pakistan: Past, Present, and Future,” brought together over 200 policymakers, scholars and community leaders for a four-hour discussion on bilateral cooperation.
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The symposium was co-chaired by Tom Suozzi and Jack Bergman, with support from the Pakistani Embassy. Participants explored key themes including security cooperation, economic collaboration and regional dynamics.
Among the speakers were S. Paul Kapur, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and Natalie Baker, who currently serves as Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad.
Addressing the gathering, Suozzi underscored the importance of maintaining strong international partnerships amid global divisions, while Bergman highlighted the need for constructive dialogue and mutual respect in managing disagreements. Ambassador Sheikh emphasized Pakistan’s strategic significance, noting that cooperation between the two countries has historically contributed to regional and global stability.
Kapur pointed to opportunities for translating diplomatic goodwill into tangible economic gains, particularly in sectors such as minerals and trade. Discussions also covered counterterrorism cooperation, police reforms, and sustainable economic growth, along with the broader regional context involving India and China.
Participants stressed the importance of increasing trade and investment flows, while also recognising the role of the Pakistani-American community in strengthening bilateral ties. Ambassador Sheikh highlighted Pakistan’s youth as a key asset, noting their growing contribution to technology and innovation.
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The symposium concluded with a consensus on the need for continued dialogue and regular engagement to reinforce cooperation and address shared challenges between the two countries.