Pakistan poised to serve as economic corridor for global economies: Ambassador Sheikh
1. Pakistani diplomat meets Texas leadership, business community, Pakistani diaspora in Dallas and Houston
**Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh Highlights Economic Potential of Pakistan During Texas Visit**
**WASHINGTON:** Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, emphasized the vast economic opportunities in Pakistan, positioning the country as a potential global economic corridor.
During his three-day visit to Texas, Sheikh met with Texas leadership, business representatives, and the Pakistani diaspora in Dallas and Houston. He underscored the potential for strengthening ties between Pakistan and Texas in sectors like IT, agriculture, textiles, and sports.
“With a market of 250 million people, Pakistan can serve as an economic corridor not only for the region but also for major global economies,” Sheikh stated.
He also highlighted the vital role of the Pakistani diaspora in enhancing economic ties with the US and facilitating investment opportunities in Pakistan.
The ambassador’s visit aimed to explore avenues for bolstering Pak-US bilateral relations and to engage with the Pakistani-American community, which is making significant professional contributions in Texas.
### **Key Meetings and Events in Texas**
- **Meeting with Governor Greg Abbott:** Sheikh discussed collaborative opportunities in IT, agriculture, textiles, and sports.
- **Inauguration of Pakistan Literature Festival in Houston:** Organized by the International Academy of Letters, the festival highlighted the role of literature, public diplomacy, and people-to-people connections in fostering Pak-US relations.
- **Engagement with Ismaili Community:** Sheikh commended the Ismaili community’s contributions under the guidance of Aga Khan during his visit to the Jamaat Khana.
- **Medical Equipment Send-off Ceremony:** Alongside Congressman Al Green, Sheikh participated in a send-off for two containers of medical equipment headed for Pakistan. He appreciated the efforts of organizations like the Houston-Karachi Sister City Association, Medical Bridges, Alliance for Disaster Relief, and Helping Hand.
- **Visit to Ibn Sina Foundation Clinics:** Sheikh was briefed on healthcare services offered to underserved communities in Greater Houston.
- **Meeting with Congressman Lance Gooden in Dallas:** Discussions revolved around Pak-US bilateral relations, security cooperation, and regional developments.
- **Engagement with the Pakistan Chamber of Commerce-USA:** The ambassador highlighted Pakistan's trade and investment potential, particularly in IT and agriculture, and assured support for Pakistani-American businesses interested in opportunities in Pakistan.
### **Strengthening the Pak-US Relationship**
During meetings with the Pakistani diaspora, Sheikh lauded their achievements and contributions toward promoting a positive image of Pakistan in the United States.
“Our community is the most enduring link in the Pak-US relationship,” he remarked. “You have not only excelled in your respective fields but have also enhanced the country’s reputation here in the US.”
He emphasized the mutual benefits of strong Pak-US relations for both countries and future generations, reaffirming the embassy’s commitment to supporting the Pakistani community.
The ambassador’s visit to Texas received extensive media coverage, underscoring the importance of fostering economic and cultural connections between the two countries.
