Two high-level US delegations are set to visit Pakistan next week to discuss key issues, including counter-terrorism cooperation, economy, trade, defense, and education. The visits come amid a complex backdrop, including the recent imposition of a 29% tariff on Pakistani goods by the US.
Delegation 1: Counter-Terrorism Talks (April 8-10)
- Led by US State Department Senior Official Eric Meyer
- Focus on enhancing counter-terrorism cooperation between Pakistan and the US
- Discussions will center on regional security challenges, including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and ISIS-Khorasan
Delegation 2: Congressional Visit (April 10-15)
- Led by US Congressmen General Jack Bergman and Tom Suozzi
- Aim to promote bilateral relations between Pakistan and the US
- Agenda includes meetings with:
- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar
- Leadership of various political parties
- Visits to Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and the Kartarpur Corridor
Notably, the congressional delegation has clarified that they will not discuss Imran Khan’s release or engage with Pakistan’s internal politics. However, some US lawmakers, like Congressman Joe Wilson, have previously expressed concerns about Khan’s detention.
