Chicago, 24 October 2026(Kamran Raja):Pakistan–U.S. Tech Connect 2026 brought together a broad cross-section of American Midwest businesses, Pakistani technology companies, policymakers and business leaders in Chicago to explore new avenues for commercial partnerships and cooperation in the digital economy.
The conference was co-hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C., the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and OPEN Global.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, inaugurated the conference, highlighting the significant potential for strengthening technology cooperation between Pakistan and the United States. He emphasized the importance of connecting Pakistan’s expanding technological capabilities with the evolving needs of American businesses through sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships.
Highlighting Pakistan’s youthful population and skilled workforce, Ambassador Sheikh encouraged U.S. technology companies to leverage Pakistan’s cost-effective, high-quality human capital to enhance productivity, competitiveness and profitability.
Illinois State Representative Justin Slaughter and State Senator Laura Murphy also addressed the conference. Daniel Bellefleur, Vice President for Foreign Direct Investment at the Illinois Economic Development Corporation, shared insights into Illinois’ economic development priorities and opportunities for international business collaboration.
PSEB Chief Executive Officer Faisal Jeddy outlined Pakistan’s information technology landscape and emerging investment and business opportunities, highlighting the country’s skilled professionals, competitive operating costs and growing capacity to deliver advanced technology solutions.
Ignite Chief Executive Officer Bilal Abbasi discussed Pakistan’s dynamic startup ecosystem, while OPEN Global President Tariq Khan highlighted opportunities for closer collaboration between Pakistani technology companies and American businesses.
Presentations by Pakistani technology firms showcased their expertise, services and innovative solutions for the U.S. market. Participating companies included Strategic Systems International, 10Pearls, Abacus, Systems Limited, Nextbridge, Addo AI, Excellence Delivered, Folio3 and TMC.
Panel discussions focused on strategies for Pakistani technology companies to establish and expand enterprise partnerships across the United States, understand the purchasing behaviour of American mid-market businesses and develop effective market-entry strategies. Another session explored opportunities to move beyond traditional outsourcing models by examining the expectations of U.S. enterprise clients and investors from Pakistani technology companies.
Dedicated networking sessions facilitated direct engagement between Midwest businesses and the visiting Pakistani delegation, enabling participants to discuss commercial requirements, identify potential partners and explore opportunities for future collaboration.
In his concluding remarks, Consul General Zaman Mehdi thanked the participants, speakers and partner organizations for their contributions to the conference. He underscored the importance of cooperation among government institutions, private-sector enterprises and the Pakistani-American diaspora in strengthening Pakistan–U.S. economic and technological ties.
OPEN Chicago Chairman Aamir Chalisa also delivered concluding remarks, highlighting the importance of continued engagement between the business communities of Pakistan and the United States.
Pakistan–U.S. Tech Connect 2026 reflects Pakistan’s continued efforts to promote its technology sector, expand international business partnerships and strengthen economic engagement with the United States. The conference provided a valuable platform for connecting Pakistani technology firms with American businesses and advancing opportunities for investment, innovation and long-term cooperation.