Pakistan has signed a two-year lobbying agreement worth $1.3 million with the US-based firm Arwin Graves Strategy Group LLC to improve its image in Washington. According to documents obtained by NDTV, the deal was signed on May 1 at the Pakistani embassy in Washington. The campaign aims to influence US policymakers and strengthen Pakistan’s position in South Asia-related policies. The firm will target key congressional committees, influential caucuses, policy experts, and investors to promote Pakistan as a partner in regional stability and counterterrorism, while also encouraging US investment in mining, IT, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and infrastructure.

Analysts view this image restoration effort as a major challenge given Pakistan’s deepening internal crises, including economic collapse, inflation, and debt burdens. The country remains under international scrutiny over allegations of enforced disappearances and excessive military force in Balochistan. Human rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about extrajudicial killings, suppression of free expression, and misuse of anti-terror laws against dissenters, as well as discrimination against religious minorities such as Hindus, Christians, and Ahmadis.