Pakistan, US discuss balanced trade framework in virtual meeting

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan held a virtual meeting with Rick Switzer, Deputy US Trade Representative, to review bilateral trade relations, discuss progress in ongoing negotiations and explore additional areas of economic cooperation between Pakistan and the United States, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday.

The statement said the two sides discussed ways to expand trade ties, with particular emphasis on working towards a balanced and mutually beneficial trade arrangement. During the exchange, the commerce minister highlighted Pakistan’s interest in broadening trade with the United States in key sectors.

"Pakistan is committed to strengthening its trade relationship with the United States through a balanced, forward?looking framework that benefits both economies," Khan said.

"We see significant potential in diversifying trade and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest," he added.

According to the official statement, Switzer appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting regional stability and acknowledged its efforts in facilitating dialogue during recent regional developments. He said such contributions help create an environment supportive of global trade and economic cooperation.

In response, Khan welcomed the US recognition of Pakistan’s role in regional peace efforts and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to responsible engagement and mediation at the international level. He said Pakistan remained focused on promoting regional stability, describing it as important for global trade, investment flows and economic connectivity.

The US side also recognised the scope for further strengthening bilateral trade and reiterated its willingness to continue working with Pakistan to move the ongoing negotiations forward. Both sides agreed that a reciprocal and forward-looking trade framework would support sustainable economic engagement.

"We value our engagement with Pakistan and look forward to continued collaboration to advance a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship," Switzer said, according to the statement.

Technical engagement continues

Federal Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul said Pakistan had already held constructive and positive engagements, with only a limited number of areas still under discussion. He said Pakistan’s technical teams remained in close contact with their US counterparts to address the remaining matters in a constructive way.

The official statement presented the meeting as part of continuing efforts by both countries to deepen trade cooperation and carry forward negotiations on a framework aimed at balanced and sustainable economic ties.