Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, made a direct appeal to American entrepreneurs to invest in his country, telling them to “profit from the promise of Pakistan” during a talk at Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Addressing the Pakistan Student Association (PSA), the ambassador emphasized the nation”s economic potential, particularly within emerging technologies, and urged the next generation of Pakistani Americans to act as vital links between the two countries. The event was also attended by Pakistan”s Consul General in New York, Amar Ahmed Atozai.

Drawing from over three decades of diplomatic service, Sheikh characterized the US-Pakistan relationship as being “as old as Pakistan itself.” He noted its transformation from a Cold War-era security alliance into a modern “strategic partnership entrenched in economic interests.”

Regarding Pakistan”s foreign policy, the ambassador stated that the country maintains a balanced approach in its relationships with both the United States and China, highlighting the distinct merits of each. He described Pakistan”s geography as a significant “geo-economic asset” that connects regions with substantial liquidity.

Ambassador Sheikh identified Pakistan”s large youth population, with 65% of its citizens under the age of 30, as a potential “demographic dividend.” He stressed the importance of developing a workforce proficient in artificial intelligence, information technology, and cryptocurrency to leverage this advantage.

He pointed to Pakistan”s top-three global ranking in freelancing and cryptocurrency utilization as evidence of its tech-savvy population. The ambassador also mentioned government initiatives aimed at creating a supportive financial, physical, and legal infrastructure for young professionals in the AI sector.

In his address to the students and diaspora professionals, Sheikh described them as “permanent ambassadors of the country,” empowering them to promote and strengthen bilateral ties. He advised the students to rally around their shared heritage, calling it a perpetual source of identity.

The ambassador encouraged the future leaders to strive for excellence and contribute to the betterment of their motherland, concluding his remarks by thanking the PSA for the opportunity to engage in a candid conversation.