Engaging with the students, Ambassador Sheikh highlighted the historical trajectory of Pakistan-United States relations, emphasizing areas of cooperation as well as shifting strategic priorities over time
Ambassador Sheikh Engages with Columbia University Students
By Elaine Pasquini
New York City: The School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) at Columbia University hosted a conversation on Pakistan’s emerging role in geopolitics on April 24, 2026, featuring special guests Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, and Aamir Ahmad Atozai, Consul General of Pakistan to New York City.
Moderated by Dr Rumela Sen, the session provided an in-depth discussion on Pakistan’s foreign policy and its evolving role in a complex global landscape.
Engaging with the students, Ambassador Sheikh highlighted the historical trajectory of Pakistan-United States relations, emphasizing areas of cooperation as well as shifting strategic priorities over time. He also spoke about Pakistan’s constructive role in facilitating dialogue, including its efforts in mediating engagement in the Iran-US conflict, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and diplomacy.
The ambassador further elaborated on the centrality of geopolitical considerations in shaping Pakistan’s foreign policy, noting how regional dynamics, economic priorities and security concerns intersect in policymaking. He also shared perspectives on future opportunities and challenges, outlining how Pakistan aims to navigate an increasingly multipolar world while strengthening its international partnerships.
Ahmad Atozai, Consul General of Pakistan based in New York City, also reflected on the importance of continued academic and diplomatic engagement between the United States and Pakistan.
In the lively Q & A session following the speeches, students from diverse academic backgrounds enthusiastically engaged Ambassador Sheikh on a wide range of topics, including regional security, economic diplomacy, Pakistan’s strategic outlook and important role as mediator between the United States and Iran which have taken place in Islamabad. The candid exchange of views contributed to a thoughtful and substantive dialogue.
The event concluded with strong participation and engagement, reaffirming the value of platforms such as SIPA in fostering informed discussions on critical global issues.
(Elaine Pasquini is a freelance journalist. Her reports appear in the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs and Nuze.Ink.)
