WASHINGTON : High-level negotiations on a reciprocal trade agreement between Pakistan and the United States officially commenced in Washington on Thursday, with both sides expressing commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties, the Foreign Office confirmed.
According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office spokesperson, the two-day dialogue is being held in the US capital and will continue through Sunday. The Pakistani delegation is being led by Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul, who is heading the team in the face-to-face discussions.
Officials from relevant ministries also participated in the negotiations via an online platform, ensuring cross-sectoral input and coordination, the spokesperson added.
During the initial sessions, detailed deliberations were held between the two countries on trade and tariff-related issues. Both sides reviewed existing trade mechanisms and explored avenues to address barriers, with a focus on creating a more predictable and mutually beneficial trade environment.
“The aim of these negotiations is to further promote Pak-US trade relations and facilitate mutual trade,” the Foreign Office spokesperson said, emphasizing that the agreement is designed to benefit businesses and consumers on both sides.
According to the spokesperson, the main objective of the negotiations is to identify and develop new opportunities for bilateral economic cooperation. Areas under discussion include market access, tariff reductions, investment facilitation, and regulatory alignment, sources familiar with the talks indicated.
The development marks a significant step in revitalizing the economic partnership between Pakistan and the United States, which has seen fluctuating trade volumes in recent years. Both delegations are expected to present follow-up proposals in the coming sessions, with the possibility of further rounds of talks if progress warrants.
No immediate timeline for the finalization of the agreement was disclosed, but officials described the atmosphere of the negotiations as “positive and constructive.”
