Pakistan Ready to Become New Hub for Investment: Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh

Washington, D.C. – Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has declared that Pakistan is fully prepared to serve as a “connector country” for the United States, similar to the role played by Mexico. Speaking at a high-profile event organized by the World Trade Center in Washington, the ambassador invited American policymakers, diplomats, investors, and business leaders to explore the vast investment opportunities in Pakistan.
Ambassador Sheikh highlighted key sectors including agriculture, information technology (IT), and mineral resources as offering unique prospects for U.S. investors. “Pakistan provides high-quality IT services at up to 70% lower costs than in the U.S.,” he said, positioning the country as a highly competitive destination for outsourcing and tech-related investments.
Citing the success of more than 80 American companies operating in Pakistan over several decades, he emphasized the country’s status as a profitable, stable, and emerging market. He added that the Government of Pakistan is working actively to simplify and improve the regulatory environment for foreign investors, with business facilitation as a top priority.
Touching upon regional stability, Ambassador Sheikh acknowledged recent tensions with India, asserting that Pakistan responded effectively to aggression but has always prioritized peace as a cornerstone of economic growth. He praised the role of U.S. leadership in de-escalation efforts, reflecting the strength of U.S.-Pakistan diplomatic ties.
The ambassador also pointed out that Pakistan is the largest importer of American cotton and continues to import soybean, underlining robust trade ties. He underscored Pakistan’s strategic location as a key geographic bridge connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
Ambassador Sheikh urged U.S. corporations, state governments, and private enterprises to visit Pakistan, witness the opportunities firsthand, and contribute to the development of the region. He also highlighted the role of the one-million-strong Pakistani-American community as a vital link in strengthening bilateral relations.
“Pakistan is not just a market of 250 million people; it is a gateway to a larger regional economy,” he concluded.