WASHINGTON: The United States has once again emphasized the importance of strengthening economic cooperation with Pakistan, with a special focus on the country’s emerging critical minerals sector.
Mary Bishoping, the Trump administration’s point person for South and Central Asia, made these remarks during her address at the annual Pakistan Mango Festival, held at the University of the District of Columbia. She said American companies are taking note of Pakistan’s reform agenda and economic potential.
She highlighted that both countries are committed to expanding cooperation in various sectors of mutual interest. “We look forward to boosting trade opportunities, especially in Pakistan’s growing mineral industry,” she said, adding that such ventures would benefit both American and Pakistani businesses.
Bishoping also welcomed Islamabad’s efforts to implement reforms aimed at supporting private sector-led economic growth. She pointed out that American firms are drawn to predictable and fair investment and regulatory environments, and that supporting such conditions benefits both nations.
Despite storm warnings and heavy rain, the event attracted a wide range of attendees including U.S. officials, lawmakers, business leaders, think tank experts, journalists, and even some quiet supporters of PTI. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the U.S., Rizwan Sheikh, kicked off the festival with humor, linking mangoes and the monsoon season.
The festival showcased several popular Pakistani mango varieties such as Chaunsa, Sindhri, Langra, and Anwar Ratol, along with mango-themed desserts and gift boxes. Bishoping concluded by acknowledging the strong security ties between the two countries and stressed continued cooperation in counterterrorism, including the joint fight against threats like ISIS.
