Islamabad: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh visited the state of Connecticut to engage with key business leaders and explore avenues for enhanced Pak-US economic collaboration: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh made a significant visit to Connecticut, aiming to foster economic collaboration between Pakistan and the United States.
According to Radio Pakistan, during his visit, Ambassador Sheikh met with Chris DiPentima, CEO of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), which is the largest business organization in Connecticut. The CBIA encompasses thousands of members across various industries, playing a crucial role in economic development, employment creation, and promoting a competitive business environment within the state. The Pak Counsel General in New York, Aamir Ahmed Atozai, and notable Pakistani-American businessman Zahir Sharaf also participated in the meeting.
The discussions revolved around strengthening Pak-US economic ties, highlighting the successful business ventures of over 80 US companies operating in Pakistan. The talks also emphasized Pakistan’s strategic geographic location, the expertise of its youth in artificial intelligence (AI) and technology sectors, and the wealth of business opportunities within the country across multiple sectors.
Ambassador Sheikh reiterated that the United States remains Pakistan’s largest export market, underlining the importance of fostering strategic relations built on economic foundations, a priority for both nations’ leadership. He pointed out unique opportunities for U.S. investors in priority sectors such as AI, minerals and rare earth metals, and energy. “With 65% of our population comprising youth under the age of 30, ideally suited for acquiring skills in technology and AI, Pakistan offers unparalleled opportunities,” he stated.
The Ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s abundant human resources, cost and quality competitiveness, strategic location, and business-friendly government policies that make Pakistan an attractive investment destination. He noted the country’s economic growth trajectory, with improvements in sovereign ratings by international institutions and global rating agencies indicative of growing international confidence in Pakistan’s economy.
Tailoring his outreach to Connecticut’s robust economy, Ambassador Sheikh invited US investors to explore opportunities in the AI, digital economy, manufacturing, energy, aviation, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals sectors. He emphasized the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) as proof of the government’s commitment to facilitating investors.
On the occasion, Chris DiPentima, CEO of CBIA, expressed a keen interest in exploring available business opportunities in Pakistan. Ambassador Sheikh assured full support, pledging to connect American business institutions and individuals with their Pakistani counterparts, providing every possible facilitation for establishing and expanding operations in Pakistan.
This visit highlights Pakistan’s proactive efforts to deepen bilateral economic partnerships and attract foreign direct investment, paving the way for mutual prosperity.