Pakistan ready to play constructive role between U.S. and China: Ambassador Rizwan

WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has said that Pakistan is prepared to play a constructive role in fostering understanding and cooperation between the United States and China.

Speaking at a panel discussion titled “The Future of the U.S.-Pakistan Relationship” during the Future Security Forum 2025 in Washington, Ambassador Sheikh thanked U.S. President Donald Trump for facilitating the ceasefire that ended the 88-hour standoff, describing it as a critical step that prevented escalation in a nuclear region home to 1.7 billion people.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to diplomacy, regional stability, and pragmatic policymaking, the Ambassador highlighted the country’s repeated cycles of devastating floods that have damaged infrastructure, reversed economic progress, and disrupted development initiatives.

On the issue of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), Ambassador Sheikh reiterated Pakistan’s principled position, calling for international mediation to help the Kashmiri people realize their right to self-determination in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions.

He said Pakistan’s foreign policy seeks balanced relations and Pakistan’s ties with Beijing are rooted in historical continuity and economic cooperation.

He noted that Pakistan’s ties with China are rooted in historical continuity and deep economic cooperation. “Our relationship with China did not start yesterday, and it will not end tomorrow,” he remarked, emphasizing that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) should be viewed primarily through an economic lens — as a means to promote regional connectivity and prosperity.

Condemning cross-border terrorism from Afghanistan, the Ambassador stated that Pakistan has endured immense suffering from terrorism and will address it resolutely.

He reaffirmed that diplomacy remained Pakistan’s preferred approach to resolving bilateral issues with both Afghanistan and India.

On the issue of Afghan refugees, he clarified that only undocumented or illegal residents are being repatriated, and that Pakistan wanted to ensure their return in a dignified manner.

Regarding the ongoing Ukraine conflict, he acknowledged and welcomed peace efforts led by the United States under President Trump’s leadership, expressing hope for their success.

Ambassador of Pakistan to #US, @AmbRizSaeed has underscored the significance of indispensable Pakistan-U.S. relations@ForeignOfficePk @StateDept @PakinUSA #RadioPakistan #News https://t.co/2MnYGn4Oep pic.twitter.com/MFPWXZ1pIy

— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) October 23, 2025