ISLAMABAD: Charge d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Pakistan Natalie A Baker on Friday underscored the strong economic and cultural linkages between Pakistan and the United States, especially through the textile sector and creative industries.
CDA Baker noted the unique capacity of the arts to forge lasting connections between nations and people.“The textile industry is one of the most powerful linkages between our two countries. Over the past five years, Pakistani exports of finished apparel and clothing products to the United States have averaged over $4 billion. Many of these garments were made from American cotton, with Pakistan importing nearly $800 million in US cotton and other raw cotton inputs annually. In fact, the United States is Pakistan’s second-largest supplier of cotton, underscoring how deeply interconnected our textile supply chains are, from American fields to Pakistani factories to global markets,” CDA Baker told the ‘Arts Entrepreneurship Showcase’ held by the US Embassy at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) in Islamabad.
She added that Pakistan was one of the world’s leading producers of denim fabric and garments, and there was a good chance that the jeans sold in American stores began their journey right here in Pakistan.
“Just look at a pair of Levi’s jeans for a powerful reminder that the US-Pakistan relationship is woven into the everyday lives of people in both countries,” she said.Headlined by Baker and Pakistani fashion designer HSY and moderated by broadcaster Tauseeq Haider, the event convened artists, designers, entrepreneurs and cultural leaders to celebrate the power of creative industries to drive economic growth, strengthen bilateral ties and connect people across cultures.
Held as part of the United States’ Freedom 250 initiative marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, the showcase featured three signature elements: A Freedom 250 entrepreneurship lecture to share American business expertise and best practices, an alumni arts marketplace showcasing the work of 20 Pakistan-US Alumni Network (PUAN) alumni active in Pakistan’s creative industries and a fashion runway show presenting 250 years of American design, culture and textile innovation.
CDA Baker also emphasised the importance of creative entrepreneurship in strengthening bilateral ties.She said the US had long believed in the power of creative industries to fuel progress and economic growth, with it being part of its national identity since 1776.
“American excellence in the arts and design comes not only from talent, but from a culture that encourages experimentation, entrepreneurship, and bold new ideas. American creative industries continue to shape global conversations and inspire audiences around the world,” she said.
A highlight of the evening was the runway show, which brought 250 years of American fashion to life through textiles, design and cultural storytelling serving as a vivid, visual expression of America’s creative heritage and its ongoing capacity for reinvention.
The US Embassy said the Freedom 250 initiative marked the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence through a year-long series of events, partnerships and programmes that celebrated American excellence, promoted US values and deepened bilateral relationships with partner nations around the world.
