Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb held high-level talks with US Commerce Secretary Howard A. Lutnick in Washington DC. The meeting focused on expanding bilateral trade and investment cooperation between Pakistan and the United States. The discussions matter as both countries seek stronger economic engagement and major project investments.
Aurangzeb led a delegation that included Pakistan’s Commerce Secretary and Ambassador to the United States. Officials said both sides expressed a desire to deepen economic cooperation. They discussed potential US investment in ICT, mining, minerals and energy sectors. Moreover, they agreed to maintain momentum through sustained institutional engagement.
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The finance minister appreciated the US Chamber of Commerce for organizing the US-Pakistan Trade and Investment Forum on March 31, 2026. He expressed hope that the US Commerce Secretary’s office would participate in the event. The forum will host leading companies and ministerial representatives from both nations. Officials expect the platform to generate fresh business partnerships.
Earlier, Aurangzeb announced plans to advance economic outreach in the United States. Pakistan is reassessing trade positioning after recent US agreements with regional countries. Meanwhile, Islamabad and Washington agreed to jointly redevelop the Roosevelt Hotel in New York. The project aims to unlock value from Pakistan’s major overseas asset.
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The hotel, owned by Pakistan International Airlines, has remained closed since 2020. Its restructuring aligns with Pakistan’s $7 billion programme with the International Monetary Fund. Both countries signed a memorandum outlining cooperation on renovation and redevelopment. Officials said engagement on major investments will continue in coming months.