Dar's US visit sets stage for stronger trade ties
Pakistan's trade relations with the United States are set to strengthen following Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar's recent visit to Washington DC, said the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Saturday.
In a statement released on Saturday, LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad praised the economic diplomacy led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy PM Dar, crediting their leadership for restoring macroeconomic stability and global confidence in Pakistan. He called the visit a "landmark step" that signals Pakistan's intent to revive economic momentum and expand global partnerships. During the trip, Dar held a key meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where both sides discussed deepening cooperation in trade, investment, technology, agriculture, and minerals.
Shad welcomed their joint commitment to building structured and sustainable mechanisms for bilateral engagement. Dar's address at the Atlantic Council also drew praise. The deputy PM spoke of Pakistan's transition from aid dependency to trade-driven growth. Shad said this forward-looking approach reflects the aspirations of Pakistan's business community and sends a strong signal to investors.
He endorsed Dar's commitment to open Pakistani markets to American goods and his push for a comprehensive trade deal with the US. He said this strategy would boost investor confidence and unlock opportunities for both sides. He added that Pakistan's reforms to improve ease of doing business and attract foreign investment should further reassure US stakeholders.
Shad noted that the US is already Pakistan's largest export destination, especially for textiles, garments, leather, and surgical tools. He pointed out that Pakistan is also the second-largest buyer of US cotton, reflecting deep trade links.
He underscored that Pakistan's textile sector would greatly benefit from predictable trade frameworks and preferential market access. A free trade agreement or bilateral investment treaty with the US, he said, would be a game-changer for Pakistan's economy.
He praised the government's strategic diplomacy and expressed LCCI's full support for efforts to enhance trade ties and foreign economic relations.
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