Pakistan is ready to play a constructive role in bridging differences between the United States and China. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, reaffirmed this during the Future Security Forum 2025 in Washington, DC. He said Pakistan’s foreign policy focuses on diplomacy, stability, and practical economic engagement to ensure long-term regional peace.
US-Pakistan Ties Enter a Strong Phase
Speaking on a panel titled “The Future of the US-Pakistan Relationship,” Sheikh noted that relations between Islamabad and Washington are now stronger than they have been in years. He added that sustained cooperation is essential for global peace, regional stability, and mutual prosperity.
Reviving US-China Understanding
Ambassador Sheikh recalled Pakistan’s historic role in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Beijing. He said Islamabad remains willing to help both nations reduce tensions and rebuild trust. “There is no binary choice for us,” he remarked. “Our relationship with China didn’t start yesterday, and it’s not ending tomorrow.”
He emphasised that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) should be viewed as an economic partnership promoting connectivity and development rather than a geopolitical tool.
Rejecting Camp Politics, Promoting Climate Diplomacy
Sheikh reiterated that Pakistan’s foreign policy rejects bloc politics and focuses on balanced ties with all major powers. He linked diplomacy with climate and economic security, saying the country faces recurring climate disasters. “What we build every few years is washed away by floods, yet we still repay what we borrow to rebuild,” he said, underscoring Pakistan’s economic strain.
Frontline Nation in Climate Action
Highlighting Pakistan’s climate vulnerability, Sheikh said Islamabad is working with the IMF and World Bank to boost resilience and economic stability. “After terrorism, Pakistan now stands as a frontline state against climate change,” he added, stressing the urgency of global cooperation.
Regional Stability and Peace Through Dialogue
On regional security, Sheikh reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled position on the Kashmir dispute, noting that lasting peace in South Asia depends on resolving the issue in line with UN Security Council resolutions. He condemned terrorism originating from Afghanistan but maintained that diplomacy remains Pakistan’s preferred tool for resolving bilateral concerns.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Global Dialogue
Discussing the Ukraine conflict, Sheikh welcomed peace efforts and reiterated Islamabad’s dedication to dialogue, respect, and collective progress. He said Pakistan’s diplomacy will continue to focus on fostering cooperation rather than confrontation.
Future Security Forum 2025
The Future Security Forum 2025, jointly organised by Arizona State University and New America, brought together policymakers, defence experts, and scholars to discuss global security trends and challenges.
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