*Eric Meyer’s visit, Pakistan* incorporating human rights, democracy, visa policy, PDA, and the broader bilateral relationship:
Rasheed Ahmad Chughtai
www.rachughtai.com
We warmly welcome Mr. Eric Meyer, Senior Bureau Official for South and Central Asian Affairs, and the distinguished U.S. delegation visiting Pakistan from April 8–10, 2025.
This visit represents an important opportunity to further strengthen the longstanding relationship between the United States and Pakistan, especially in areas of mutual interest like sustainable development, critical minerals, and economic cooperation. As the delegation participates in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum, we hope this engagement will open new avenues for green economic transformation, responsible mining practices, and enhanced U.S.-Pakistan trade partnerships.
We also encourage that the dialogue extends to key political and humanitarian concerns, such as democratic development, media freedom, human rights, and institutional capacity-building, in line with the shared values of dignity, justice, and equality. These are vital pillars for stable bilateral relations and for the socio-economic upliftment of the people of Pakistan.
Furthermore, we hope the visit initiates discussions on practical steps to remove Pakistan from the U.S. State Department’s Orange Category (Level 3: Reconsider Travel), as it adversely impacts travel, academic exchange, and people-to-people connections between the two nations. Pakistan’s progress in counter-terrorism, regional peacebuilding, and infrastructure development should be duly acknowledged in such assessments.
Additionally, if any dialogue is possible regarding the Protect Democracy Act (PDA) or related legislative frameworks in the U.S. Congress, it could offer a vital avenue to foster democratic resilience and combat authoritarian tendencies worldwide, including within South Asia.
In conclusion, the people of Pakistan welcome this high-level visit with open hearts and open minds. We hope the visit leads to constructive, people-centric diplomacy that nurtures peace, prosperity, and respect on both sides.
www.rachughtai.com