A group of senior Pakistani officials has landed in the U.S. capital for a quiet but significant diplomatic visit. The purpose is straightforward — tell Pakistan’s side of the story directly, without filters, and try to build better understanding with American policymakers.
The team includes members from foreign affairs, finance, and defence. Though the meetings aren’t public, sources say they’ve already started engaging with U.S. officials, think tanks, and other key figures.
“This trip isn’t about flashy headlines. It’s about having the right conversations behind the scenes,” said one source familiar with the delegation’s schedule. “Pakistan wants to be heard — and understood.”
Top of the agenda is regional stability, especially the evolving situation in Afghanistan. Islamabad feels it hasn’t been given enough credit for its role in managing post-withdrawal challenges and is eager to share how it’s helping keep things in check.
Another major concern is economic pressure. The delegation is expected to explore avenues for trade, investment, and possibly even some form of financial cooperation. “Pakistan doesn’t want aid — it wants opportunity,” said a senior diplomat.
The meetings are also expected to cover defence and security cooperation, and how to keep the peace in South Asia. While Pakistan is treading carefully on the India question, officials may point out how recent developments across the border are raising concern.
One expert based in Washington noted the visit shows Pakistan is taking control of its narrative. “They’re not here to react. They’re here to engage — to reshape how they’re seen.”
The trip will continue into next week. There won’t be any press briefings or photo ops, but insiders say the real impact of the visit will be seen in how the U.S. responds in the months ahead.
