Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh Reveals Pakistan to Start Negotiations with US on Tariff Issue
Washington:Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has revealed that Pakistan is initiating negotiations with the US on the issue of tariffs. Speaking in a discussion on Geo News’ program *Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Ke Saath*, Ambassador Sheikh confirmed that Pakistan will be engaging with the United States over the tariff matter, with a meeting scheduled today with the US Trade Representative. He expressed confidence that the concerns of the US could be addressed effectively through dialogue.
Regarding the potential travel restrictions imposed by the United States, Sheikh mentioned that a final decision on visa matters from the US is still pending, and diplomatic efforts are ongoing in this regard. He emphasized that Pakistan has conveyed to US authorities that the country is always prepared to meet international laws and diplomatic obligations.
It is important to note that US President Donald Trump recently announced retaliatory tariffs on various countries, including Pakistan, China, and Turkey. President Trump has declared a 29% tariff on Pakistani products, effective from April 9.
Former Pakistani Ambassador to the United Nations, Maleeha Lodhi, commented on the situation, stating that tariffs on Pakistani products have always existed, and the new US tariffs could trigger a global trade war. She further emphasized that whether or not the US imposes tariffs, Pakistan must focus on improving its exports.
