ISLAMABAD: Strategic analysts from the United States, Daniel F. Runde and Ambassador Robin Raphel, have expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan-U.S. relations, urging both nations to recalibrate and strengthen their ties in various sectors beyond security.
Speaking at an event hosted by the Centre for Law and Security (CLAS) in Islamabad, Mr. Runde, Senior Vice President at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), and Ambassador Raphel, a former U.S. diplomat, emphasized the potential for growth in the bilateral relationship if both sides focus on broadening cooperation.
Mr. Runde, a Republican with experience at USAID and the World Bank, suggested that Pakistan and the U.S. could enhance their partnership by expanding beyond defense and security cooperation. He highlighted areas such as mineral trade, energy collaboration, and education as key opportunities for deeper engagement. Runde also proposed that U.S. universities could consider establishing campuses in Pakistan to foster educational ties.
Ambassador Raphel, who previously served as the U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia and Assistant Secretary of South Asia, echoed Runde’s sentiments, noting that while the U.S. administration would reassess its relationship with Pakistan, much of the collaboration would continue. She emphasized the importance of working together on issues like climate change, research, and education, which are critical for long-term stability and cooperation.
Dr. Faisal Mushtaq, Chairman & CEO of Roots Millennium Education Group & TMUC, welcomed the guests and highlighted the importance of education in strengthening Pakistan-U.S. relations. He committed to enhancing educational collaboration between Pakistan and U.S. universities to advance mutual understanding.
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Ambassador Masood Khan, President of TMUC and Millennium Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship (MiTE), also spoke at the event, expressing hope for continued cooperation with the U.S. He emphasized that both countries share mutual interests that should not be overlooked in favor of short-term political shifts.
The event, attended by faculty, researchers, scholars, and corporate executives, also saw CLAS Executive Director Rehman Azhar announce that the center would continue organizing dialogues to strengthen ties with other nations and promote better trade and investment opportunities.
The discussions marked a positive outlook for the future of Pakistan-U.S. relations, with a focus on expanding collaboration in non-security sectors.
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