An Islamabad-based national security think tank, the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI), has recently engaged a new lobbying firm in the US, as revealed by the official list of registered foreign agents. The US Foreign Agents Registration Act mandates the public disclosure of all lobbyists working for foreign entities, including governments and private corporations.
IPRI, known for its expertise in national security, international relations, and strategic studies, has enlisted the services of Team Eagle Consulting led by Stephen Payne. The firm’s objective, as per the FARA filings, is to strengthen US-Pakistan relations.
This strategic move by IPRI may be a response to the increasing influence of PTI supporters in the US advocating for the release of imprisoned leaders. Several members of the US Congress recently urged President Joe Biden to intervene, a move criticized by the Foreign Office.
Team Eagle will reportedly receive $1.5 million annually for its services and is described as a consortium of Pakistan experts and global specialists in government affairs and economic development.
Published in Dawn, October 26th, 2024