LAX Leader

Mae Cornes, a columnist for LA Weekly, said the current economic challenges faced in Pakistan "should not be seen as a barrier but as an opportunity" for the U.S. to invest in the country and continue its relationship with Pakistan. 

"Pakistan’s economic challenges should not be seen as a barrier but as an opportunity for the U.S. to step in and foster a new chapter in the bilateral relationship," Cornes wrote in a recent article. "By investing in key sectors like energy, technology, and infrastructure, the U.S. can help Pakistan stabilize its economy while creating new opportunities for American businesses."

"This is about more than just economics—it’s about building a long-term partnership that promotes regional stability, strengthens U.S. influence in South Asia, and helps Pakistan achieve sustainable growth," said Cornes. "The time to act is now, ensuring that the U.S. remains a vital partner in Pakistan’s future development."

Pakistan's political leadership aims for 3.6% economic growth in the next fiscal year, requiring significant foreign investment. The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), formed in 2023, is responsible for attracting international capital. From July to April, SIFC secured $1.45 billion in investments, an 8.1% increase from the previous year.

Pakistan's economy presents opportunities in renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology which are seen as potential areas for U.S. investment, according to Cornes' article. With a population of over 240 million, Pakistan’s location at the crossroads of Central Asia, the Middle East, and South Asia makes its stability vital for regional security. U.S. investment in infrastructure, technology, and energy sectors can foster economic growth, reduce unemployment, and open new opportunities.

Pakistan remains a key U.S. ally, with the U.S. being its top export destination and a major source of aid. Stability in Pakistan is aligned with U.S. interests in the region, particularly in preventing broader conflicts.

Pakistan’s 12th general election in February 2024 saw a record voter turnout of 60.6 million. As a result of the election, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) backed the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and made a formal agreement to name Asif Ali Zardari as President and Shebhaz Sharif as Prime Minister.