Parliamentary relations between Pakistan and the United States have formally begun as a Pakistani parliamentary delegation held high-level engagements with members of the US Congress at Capitol Hill, marking a new phase of bilateral cooperation beyond government-to-government ties.
The Pakistani delegation, comprising Rana Mahmoodul Hassan and Saleem Mandviwala, visited the US parliament in Washington. During the visit, they met with American senators and members of Congress.
The delegation also extended formal invitations to US lawmakers to visit Pakistan, aiming to promote people-to-people and parliamentary-level engagement.
Speaking on the occasion, US Congressman Ron Estes emphasized the importance of inter-parliamentary exchanges between Pakistan and the United States. He stressed that such interactions are essential for strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation.
The US parliamentary delegation accepted the invitation extended by Senator Mahmoodul Hassan and assured that they would visit Pakistan in the future.
Call to expand ties beyond govts
Addressing the ceremony, Senator Mandviwala said that Pakistan–US relations should not be limited to government-level interactions alone. He underlined the need for strong parliamentary linkages to ensure continuity and depth in bilateral relations.
He added that sustained dialogue between legislators of both countries would help build trust and long-term cooperation.
Representing US Congressman Tom Suozzi, his assistant read out a message during the event. The message noted that Congressman Suozzi’s family had migrated from Pakistan to India.
The message also conveyed sentiments from the Sikh community, stating that “we Sikhs love Pakistan very much,” highlighting cultural and historical connections between the peoples of the two countries.
Gifts exchanged at Capitol Hill
Pakistani and American gifts were exchanged during the ceremony held at Capitol Hill, symbolizing goodwill and the beginning of closer parliamentary relations.
The event reflected a positive and cordial atmosphere, underscoring mutual respect between the delegations.
The Pakistani parliamentary delegation has also been invited to the White House for further engagements. The delegation arrived in the United States at the invitation of the Pakistan Policy Institute USA.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Mujtaba said that US Congressman Al Green had been invited to form the Pakistan Strategic Bipartisan Caucus, an invitation he has accepted.
He added that the financial resources for this caucus would be provided by Pakistanis living in the United States, reflecting strong diaspora support for closer Pakistan–US parliamentary cooperation.
