Lahore, August 16, 2026: U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan Natalie A. Baker has highlighted opportunities to expand US-Pakistan cooperation in trade, investment, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies during her August 11-12 visit to Lahore.
Baker emphasized the role of American innovation and private-sector partnerships in creating jobs, expanding economic opportunities and promoting shared prosperity between the two countries.
For more than two decades, the United States has remained Pakistan’s largest export market and a major source of foreign investment. During her visit, Baker reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to working with Pakistan’s private sector, innovators, universities and government to expand trade and investment and develop partnerships aimed at generating sustainable economic growth.
She held meetings with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Punjab’s Advisor on Artificial Intelligence and Special Initiatives Ali Dar, where discussions focused on emerging technologies, higher education and innovation.
The engagements underscored the importance of policies and partnerships capable of encouraging investment, entrepreneurship and technological development, while Baker’s meetings with business leaders, technology innovators and government officials highlighted opportunities to deepen commercial cooperation in high-growth sectors.
At the opening of US-based restaurant chain P.F. Chang’s newest outlet in Lahore, Baker highlighted the benefits of American-Pakistani commercial partnerships, noting that bilateral trade between the two countries exceeded $8 billion in 2025.
She also visited technology companies NetSol Technologies, CodeNinja and Game District, where she observed Pakistan’s expanding technology sector and discussed opportunities for greater cooperation in software development, digital services and artificial intelligence.
During her interaction with students at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Baker highlighted the institution’s partnership with Arizona State University, describing it as an example of how collaboration with American educational institutions can expand opportunities for Pakistani students while strengthening broader economic ties.
Concluding her Lahore visit as chief guest at a Business Recorder roundtable, Baker emphasized US leadership in artificial intelligence and the importance of trusted partnerships in converting technological innovation into economic growth, employment opportunities and shared prosperity.
