The US-Pakistan policy symposium at the US Capitol marked a notable moment in congressional history, bringing together policymakers, scholars, and community leaders to discuss the future of ties between Washington and Islamabad.
Organised by the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, the four-hour event drew more than 200 participants. The session, titled “U.S. and Pakistan: Past, Present, and Future,” focused on how both countries can strengthen cooperation despite ongoing differences.
The symposium featured senior officials from both countries, including Assistant Secretary of State S. Paul Kapur, Pakistan’s Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and US Embassy representative Natalie Baker.
Lawmakers Tom Suozzi and Jack Bergman co-chaired the event. Both stressed the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, and practical cooperation in a divided global environment.
Speakers at the Capitol Hill symposium “US and Pakistan: Past, Present and Future” highlighted Pakistan’s growing diplomatic role in regional disputes, noting its mediation efforts between the US and Iran and emphasizing its strategic importance due to its diaspora, educated… pic.twitter.com/7GJUfAw6hS
— Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) March 25, 2026Participants acknowledged that disagreements remain, but they also argued that regular engagement is necessary to build a more stable and forward-looking relationship. These themes reflected a wider effort to move the relationship beyond crisis management and toward long-term cooperation.
Dr. Paul Kapur said recent positive developments have helped strengthen economic sectors, including minerals, creating new opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.
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Ambassador Sheikh described Pakistan as strategically important and said cooperation between the two countries has historically supported regional and global stability.
He also highlighted the role of the Pakistani-American community in deepening bilateral ties. In addition, he pointed to Pakistan’s young, skilled workforce, especially in technology, as an asset that could support stronger economic ties with the United States.
