The United States is seeking to deepen trade and investment ties with Pakistan, with artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies emerging as major areas for future cooperation.

US Charge d’Affaires to Pakistan Natalie A. Baker highlighted the potential for stronger economic and technology partnerships during a visit to Lahore.

Baker said US innovation and private-sector collaboration could help create jobs, expand economic opportunities and promote shared prosperity.

She noted that the United States has remained Pakistan’s largest export market for more than two decades and is also a major source of foreign investment.

During her Lahore visit, Baker met Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and her Adviser on Artificial Intelligence and Special Initiatives Ali Dar. Discussions covered AI, emerging technologies, higher education, innovation and policies aimed at attracting investment and supporting entrepreneurship.

Baker also visited the Lahore outlet of US restaurant chain PF Chang’s, where she highlighted the potential of commercial partnerships between the two countries. Bilateral trade exceeded $8 billion in 2025, she said.

She separately visited US-based technology companies NetSol Technologies, CodeNinja and Game District to review Pakistan’s growing tech industry and discuss opportunities in software development, digital services and AI.

At the National Institute of Technology, Baker highlighted its partnership with Arizona State University, saying such academic cooperation can expand opportunities for Pakistani students while strengthening economic links between the two countries.

At a technology roundtable, Baker emphasized US leadership in AI and the importance of trusted partnerships to translate technological advances into investment, employment and broader economic growth.