RAWALPINDI: A delegation of US lawmakers — led by Jack Bergman — Sunday called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir and commended Pakistan’s armed forces for their pivotal role in combating terrorism.
The Congressmen also acknowledged Pakistan’s enduring contributions to the regional peace and stability.
Thomas Souzzi and Jonathan Jackson were the part of the delegation.
The delegation discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, with particular emphasis on regional security and defence cooperation.
According to a statement issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), both sides reaffirmed the importance of sustained engagement based on mutual respect, shared values, and converging strategic interests.
The congressmen also deeply appreciated Pakistan’s resilience and the strategic potential of its people.
Underscoring their respect for Pakistan’s sovereignty, the US congressmen conveyed a strong commitment to advancing broad-based bilateral cooperation, particularly in the domains of security, trade, investment, and economic development.
The army chief conveyed his appreciation to the delegation for their visit and reiterated Pakistan’s desire to further deepen and diversify its longstanding partnership with the US in a manner that is mutually beneficial and respectful of each other’s national interests.
Memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were also signed for training collaboration in the field of information technology, read the statement.
Earlier, the congressional delegation held an important meeting with Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad.
Naqvi emphasised the country’s role in the fight against terrorism, saying, “Pakistan stands as a wall between terrorism and the rest of the world”.
Both sides also exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, and investment. Discussions were also held on security, counterterrorism, and border security.
Naqvi termed terrorism a “global challenge” and said the international community must extend full cooperation to Pakistan.
He said, “Intelligence and technology sharing in the domain of counter-terrorism is of utmost importance.”
The minister further said Pakistan’s immense sacrifices against terrorism were unmatched in the global context. He said the visit of US congressmen will be crucial in highlighting Pakistan’s unprecedented role in the fight against terrorism.
He welcomed the US delegation’s participation in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025 and said the government will ensure every possible facility and full protection to the investors.
Naqvi said strong and sustainable relations with the US hold a key place in Pakistan’s foreign policy.
He said the holding of Pakistan Caucus in the US on April 30 was a welcome development.
The US congressmen delegation said there was a need to highlight Pakistan’s role in the war against terrorism. They further said the Pakistani community residing in the US was very talented and hardworking.
Shakeel Anjum adds: The interior minister emphasized the pivotal role of a robust and enduring relationship with the United States within Pakistan’s foreign policy framework.
He welcomed the upcoming Pakistan Caucus in the US on April 30th, viewing it as a positive step towards fostering greater understanding and cooperation.
He stressed the imperative of international collaboration in combating terrorism, highlighting the critical need for intelligence and technology sharing.
“Pakistan’s unparalleled sacrifices in the fight against terrorism are a testament to our unwavering commitment to global security,” he added.
He expressed optimism that the US Congressional delegation’s visit would effectively showcase Pakistan’s crucial role in this ongoing struggle.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry highlighted the significance of the forthcoming Counter-Terrorism Dialogue, scheduled to take place in Islamabad in June. He asserted that this dialogue would serve as a vital platform for advancing mutual cooperation in counterterrorism initiatives.
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