US-Pakistan Relations Emphasized by President Joe Biden Amid Diplomatic Credentials Ceremony
United States President Joe Biden reaffirmed the significance of Washington’s ties with Islamabad for regional stability and security during a ceremony where Pakistan’s new Ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, presented his credentials.
Key Statements from President Biden:
- Importance of Bilateral Relations: Biden emphasized that the relationship between the two countries is crucial for regional stability, noting the importance of US-Pakistan cooperation in countering terrorism.
- Enduring Partnership: He described the US-Pakistan partnership as vital to ensuring global and regional security, stating that both nations face common challenges like climate change, security threats, and global health concerns.
- Commitment to Cooperation: Biden stressed the need to continue building upon areas of shared interest, particularly in security, trade, investment, and the Green Alliance framework.
Tensions Over Ballistic Missile Program
While the US maintains its stance on supporting Pakistan’s development in various sectors, Biden’s remarks come at a time when Washington continues to impose sanctions on entities involved in Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated this policy, adding that while Pakistan is a long-standing partner, there are disagreements.
Miller also stated that the US will continue using sanctions and other tools to protect its national security and ensure its financial system isn’t misused by proliferators.
Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh’s Remarks
In his address, Ambassador Sheikh conveyed greetings from Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting the longstanding cooperative relationship between Pakistan and the US. Sheikh praised the economic partnership as the core of bilateral ties, noting that the US remains Pakistan’s largest export destination.
He further emphasized Pakistan’s readiness to enhance trade with the US, particularly in green technology, alternative energy, digital platforms, and higher education. Sheikh also stressed the important role of Pakistan’s diaspora in the US, calling them a vital “bridge” between the two countries.
Continued Cooperation and Diplomatic Engagement
President Biden welcomed Ambassador Sheikh’s return to Washington, marking over 75 years of friendship between the two nations. Both leaders expressed optimism about deepening ties and advancing a common agenda to tackle global and regional challenges.