Bolstering US trade relations key to Pakistan's economic growth: Ambassador Rizwan

HOUSTON: Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has stated that boosting exports to the US, the country’s largest trading partner, could significantly contribute to putting Pakistan’s economy on a path to sustainable growth.

Rizwan said this in a meeting with Karachi-Houston Sister City Association (HKSCA) President Muhammad Saeed Sheikh, in Washington DC.

In his discussion with Saeed, who is a prominent business leader and recognised volunteer in Houston, the ambassador highlighted the essential role of Pakistani-American organisations in fostering trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.

Rizwan emphasised that the Pakistani-American community is not only fortifying the ties between Islamabad and Washington but also making significant contributions to Pakistan’s development, particularly in the face of recent challenges. 

He underscored that strengthening trade ties could be crucial in addressing Pakistan's current economic issues and assured Saeed of his full support in this endeavour.

Meanwhile, Saeed, who has been actively engaged in trade and humanitarian activities for over 40 years, updated the ambassador on various successful trade-related initiatives. 

He also presented detailed reports on development projects he has led, including the 2022 Pakistan Flood Relief efforts, which raised $2 million in humanitarian aid for flood victims. 

This initiative, in collaboration with 40 organisations like Helping Hand and the Alliance for Disaster Relief, provided relief to over 65,000 flood victims through the delivery of medical supplies and equipment.

Furthermore, the HKSCA president briefed Rizwan on ongoing projects, such as the establishment of RO water filtration plants, the planting of over 10,000 trees across Pakistan, and the launch of a student scholarship program.

Ambassador Rizwan praised Saeed's commitment to trade and humanitarian efforts, recognising the significant impact of his initiatives.