Pakistan and the United States have begun high-level negotiations in Washington, D.C., aimed at finalizing a proposed Agreement on Reciprocal Trade to strengthen bilateral economic ties, improve market access, and review existing tariff policies.
According to the Foreign Office, the two-day discussions are taking place on Thursday and Friday. Pakistan’s delegation is headed by Federal Secretary for Commerce Jawad Paul and includes Additional Secretary and Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, Secretary for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Nadeem Chaudhary, and Joint Secretary for Tariff Policy Ashfaq Khan.
Officials from several Pakistani ministries and government departments are also participating virtually to provide technical input and ensure comprehensive representation during the negotiations.
Focus on Trade and Investment
The talks are centered on expanding reciprocal market access, promoting bilateral investment, and exploring tariff adjustments as both countries work toward a mutually beneficial long-term trade agreement.
The current negotiations build on recent virtual engagements between Pakistani and US officials and reflect efforts by both sides to broaden economic cooperation beyond traditional trade relations.
Tariff Deadline Adds Urgency
The discussions come as the United States reviews its trade policies ahead of the July 24 deadline for temporary tariff measures. Pakistan is seeking improved access for its exports to the US market while both countries aim to replace temporary trade arrangements with a more stable and sustainable bilateral framework.
