Pakistan playing constructive diplomatic role, including Iran–US facilitation: Amb Sheikh

• Envoy to US highlights Pakistan’s evolving geopolitical role and foreign policy priorities, reaffirming commitment to regional stability and dialogue-based diplomacy

• Addresses SIPA event at Columbia University, reviewing Pakistan–US ties, shifting strategic priorities over time

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan continues to play a constructive role in facilitating diplomatic engagement, including in the Iran–US context, as part of its broader commitment to peace and regional stability, said Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, according to an official statement.

Addressing a discussion hosted by the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) at Columbia University, Ambassador Sheikh engaged students on Pakistan’s evolving geopolitical role, outlining its foreign policy priorities, engagement with the United States, efforts to promote dialogue in regional conflicts and its expanding global partnerships.

Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh engaged students at Columbia University SIPA on Pakistan’s evolving geopolitical role, highlighting foreign policy priorities, regional dynamics, and global partnerships. Joined by CG Aamir Ahmad Atozai. pic.twitter.com/bDRr6MJaHJ

— Pakistan Consulate General New York (@PakinNewYork) April 24, 2026

He reiterated that Pakistan continues to play a constructive role in facilitating diplomatic engagement, including in the Iran–US context, as part of its broader push for peace and stability.

The ambassador highlighted Islamabad’s commitment to regional stability and diplomatic engagement while discussing Pakistan’s shifting geopolitical position during the interactive session.

The discussion, moderated by Rumela Sen, also examined the historical trajectory of Pakistan–US relations, with the ambassador noting both areas of cooperation and evolving strategic priorities over time.

He said geopolitical considerations, economic goals and security challenges remain central to Pakistan’s policymaking as it navigates an increasingly multipolar global order.

Students engaged the ambassador in a question-and-answer session focused on regional security, economic diplomacy and Pakistan’s long-term strategic outlook.

Aamir Ahmad Atozai also attended the event, which underscored ongoing academic and diplomatic engagement between Pakistan and the United States.

Last week, Ambassador Sheikh also called for strengthening bilateral economic relations, stressing that Pakistan–US ties were not merely optional but an essential requirement of both present and future circumstances.

Speaking at the “Pakistan Conference” held at Harvard University, he invited American investors and business leaders to tap Pakistan’s economic potential, reiterating the country’s commitment to providing all possible facilitation to foreign investors.

He said Muhammad Ali Jinnah had envisioned Pakistan as “the axis of the world,” adding that due to Pakistan’s decades-long diplomatic engagement and consistent efforts, the country had been selected as a facilitator for US–Iran negotiations.