In the first top-level contact between the United States and Pakistan in a long time, President Joe Biden assured Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday of his administration’s full support in addressing the critical challenges facing the region.
Biden’s letter to Sharif signifies a thaw in the frosty US-Pakistan relations following the strained ties during the withdrawal of international forces from Afghanistan and the subsequent allegations by Pakistan’s former premier Imran Khan of a US conspiracy against his administration.
The US president’s outreach marks a notable shift from the previously perceived indifference, evident in the absence of direct communication with Khan’s government.
The correspondence underscores a potential recalibration of bilateral relations, with the US president describing the partnership between the two countries’ people as “crucial for global and local security.”
“The US will stand with Pakistan in facing the most critical challenges of the time and region,” Biden was quoted as saying in an official statement released by the Pakistani authorities. “Public health protection, economic growth and education for all are shared visions that will continue to be promoted together.”
The US president also highlighted various areas where the two countries have been working together while promising to strengthen their joint efforts.
He specifically mentioned the US-Pakistan Green Alliance Framework, saying his administration would continue to work with Pakistan for environmental improvement.
Biden also spoke of sustainable agricultural development, water management and recovery from the devastating effects of the 2022 floods in Pakistan.
He also expressed dedication to protecting human rights and promoting development together with Pakistan amid previous US concerns over freedom of speech and expression in the wake of period social media disruptions in the South Asian country.
“The strong partnership established between the two nations will be strengthened,” he said in the letter.
