Chargé d’Affaires Baker highlights shared democratic values and strategic collaboration
Acting U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Natalie Baker. Photo: (file)
ISLAMABAD:
The United States reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Pakistan, describing the country as a critical partner for decades to come, in a statement marking America’s approaching 250th birthday in 2026.
In the statement, Natalie Baker, Charge d’Affairs at the US Embassy in Islamabad, presented the event not only as a celebration, but also as an opportunity for the renewal of national strength, democratic institutions, economic resilience and principled leadership.
“America at 250 aims to restore national strength, strengthen democratic institutions, foster economic growth, and reaffirm principled leadership grounded in realism and reciprocity,” Baker said, emphasizing that strong nations build strong partnerships.
She highlighted the resilience of democratic systems, noting that the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1788, established checks and balances to protect liberty and prevent the concentration of power. Drawing parallels with Pakistan, she said the country’s journey, shaped by reform and championing national priorities, resonated with these ideals.
“Just as the United States protects its institutions while respecting the sovereignty of others, we seek collaboration with Pakistan based on mutual respect and shared interests,” she said.
Baker also highlighted the economic dimension of the US-Pakistan partnership, emphasizing that the US economy is powered by innovation, enterprise and the rule of law. She discussed the Freedom 250 agenda, which connects America’s founding principles with a forward-looking foreign policy focused on prosperity, innovation and lasting partnerships.
She highlighted the intensification of economic engagement since January 2025, citing the visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir to the White House and the agreements between American and Pakistani companies in the areas of essential minerals, mining and infrastructure.
These initiatives, supported by U.S. financing tools, Baker said, demonstrate how strategic investments can create jobs, improve resilience and strengthen prosperity in both countries.
Security cooperation, she said, is essential to maintaining prosperity. She underscored the shared commitment of the United States and Pakistan to combat terrorism and extremism while respecting sovereignty. She said counterterrorism and intelligence collaboration strengthens citizen security and builds trust between the two countries.
Baker recognized the contributions of overseas Pakistanis in medicine, science, business and civic life to the United States, while reiterating the importance of legal immigration. She said visas remain a privilege, not a right, but stressed that Pakistani nationals and the diaspora strengthen American communities and foster mutual understanding.
Concluding his message, Baker expressed optimism about the future of US-Pakistan relations. She said recent high-level engagements and agreements demonstrate the benefits of mutual respect, tangible results and aligned economic and security interests.
“Pakistan’s resilience, innovation and strategic importance provide the opportunity to create a lasting legacy of collaboration,” Baker said, adding that the United States reaffirms its commitment to a strong, respectful and forward-looking relationship, one that will continue to provide security, prosperity and leadership for the next 250 years.
