US envoy Baker boosts economic, security ties in Karachi
U.S. Embassy Islamabad Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Natalie Baker visited Karachi from September 23–26 to strengthen avenues for U.S.-Pakistan cooperation in bilateral trade and foreign investment to deliver increased prosperity for both countries.
CDA Baker met with Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori to discuss U.S.-Pakistan trade, opportunities for bilateral investment activity, and ongoing flood recovery efforts, including the positive impact of the United States’ recent contributions. She also engaged with Karachi’s business leaders, including Kentucky Fried Chicken, Liberty Group, Gerry’s Group, and representatives of the Reko Diq mining project to explore expanding commercial ties in technology, energy, critical minerals, manufacturing, textiles, packaging, and the port sector.
CDA Baker learned from U.S. businesses in the textile sector about the impact of U.S. innovations like RFID and smart labels that will streamline the management of Pakistan’s export industries. She met with Liberty Group and Reko Diq’s new country manager to discuss U.S. support to Pakistan’s critical minerals sector. At Gerry’s Group, she highlighted the contributions of U.S. franchises in Pakistan and discussed opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
During her visit, CDA Baker joined senior leaders from the Pakistan Navy to welcome the Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) to Karachi port. The visit showcased the partnership between the United States Navy and the Pakistan Navy and underscored our shared commitment to maritime security and regional stability.
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CDA Baker also visited the KFC-sponsored Deaf Reach School in Karachi to highlight KFC’s strong ethic of corporate social responsibility. Since 2014, KFC has helped Pakistan’s deaf community by providing education, training, and jobs at nine deaf-dedicated outlets and over 250 employees with hearing disabilities. This partnership exemplifies how U.S. businesses expand opportunity and economic impact.
“Strengthening our commercial partnership with Pakistan benefits both our peoples and fosters shared prosperity,” said CDA Baker. “The United States is committed to supporting Pakistan’s success through trade, investment, and innovation. Together, we can ensure the next chapter of our partnership is one of mutual growth and opportunity.”
CDA Baker emphasized that deeper economic cooperation creates tangible benefits for Pakistanis. To date over 80 U.S. companies have invested in Pakistan, directly employing 120,000 Pakistani workers and indirectly supporting a million more workers. “By working together, we can help Pakistani businesses reach their full potential, create opportunities for American businesses, and contribute to Pakistan’s economic development,” she added.
CDA Baker’s engagements underscored the enduring U.S. dedication to advancing the U.S.–Pakistan relationship through practical collaboration in trade, bilateral investment, and security—pillars that strengthen both nations.
