ISLAMABAD: US Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) for South and Central Asian Affairs John Mark Pommersheim on Saturday concluded a five-day visit to Pakistan aimed at strengthening cooperation on economic growth and shared security interests, according to a statement issued by the US Embassy.
“The United States is forging new partnerships, championing innovation, and defining a new era of diplomacy that will carry us forward for the next 250 years,” the statement said.
The visit comes as both countries seek to deepen engagement in trade, investment, and emerging technology sectors.
During his stay, Pommersheim met senior Pakistani civilian and military representatives, including Director General of Military Operations Major General Kashif Abdullah and Director General of Military Intelligence Major General Wajid Aziz Khan.
He also held meetings with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and Minister of IT and Telecommunications Shaza Khawaja.
“DAS Pommersheim recognized Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms efforts under the IMF program,” the statement added.
In Islamabad, the US official attended the launch of Pakistan’s Indus AI Week, where he expressed support for expanding partnerships in the digital and IT sectors.
Later in Lahore, Pommersheim attended Basant celebrations, “experiencing Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage firsthand” according to the US Embassy.
He met Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb to discuss U.S. business engagement with Punjab and promote Pakistani investment in the United States.
The statement concluded that his discussions with Pakistani officials underscored “the importance of expanding trade and investment, including the AI, IT, energy, and critical minerals and mining sectors” between both countries.
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