Amb. Rizwan Saeed Sheikh Engages LAWAC in Dialogue on Security, Development, and BilateralCooperation 

Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, Mr. Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, welcomed a distinguished delegation from the Los Angeles World Affairs Council (LAWAC) at the Consulate General of Pakistan in Los Angeles. The delegation was led by the Honorable Maria Contreras-Sweet, Chair of LAWAC’s Board, along with senior Board members. Consul General Mr. Asim Ali Khan also joined the meeting.

The engagement featured a dynamic and wide-ranging discussion on key global and regional issues, including economic growth, energy transition, water security, demographic trends, women’s empowerment, and technological advancement in Pakistan’s education, IT, mining, and energy sectors.

LAWAC members lauded Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms and expressed strong interest in exploring investment opportunities across multiple sectors to promote inclusive development and enhance bilateral economic ties.

Amb. Sheikh also delivered a detailed briefing on the regional security landscape, highlighting the success of Operation Bunyad-un-Marsoos and reaffirming Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to regional peace and stability. He emphasized that a just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute—per United Nations Security Council resolutions—is essential for lasting peace in South Asia.

Later, during a public session hosted by LAWAC, Amb. Sheikh outlined Pakistan’s vision for “peace with dignity,” discussed the nation’s path to economic recovery, and highlighted the evolving Pakistan–U.S. relationship. He noted that Pakistan’s recognized economic stabilization strategies are closely linked to ensuring a secure regional environment.

Underscoring Pakistan’s firm resolve to defend its sovereignty, he stated that Pakistan would not hesitate to restore strategic deterrence in response to any future aggression, stressing the importance of maintaining regional and global peace.

The Ambassador also spotlighted the vital need to uphold international treaties and legal frameworks—particularly regarding transboundary water resources, which directly impact the security and livelihoods of hundreds of millions in the region.

Amb. Sheikh acknowledged the constructive role of the United States in facilitating a recent ceasefire and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening cooperation with the U.S., particularly in areas such as counter-terrorism and regional peacebuilding. He welcomed continued American engagement on key regional challenges, especially the peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

Warning against the rise of extremist rhetoric and militarism in India, the Ambassador urged the international community to take note of the growing threat posed by Hindutva-driven nationalism, which endangers regional peace and stability.

In a lively Q&A, Amb. Sheikh encouraged ongoing dialogue and collaboration, urging institutions like LAWAC to remain active in championing global peace, mutual understanding, and constructive engagement.