PML-N Chief, Nawaz Sharif, has urged US Special Envoy, Richard Holbrooke, to support Pakistan's efforts to finalise a Free Trade Agreement with the United States and encourage greater American investment in Pakistan. The PML-N chief underscored the key areas, especially the energy sector, as these will have a direct bearing on the country's economy, as well as on the people's well being.
This was observed by Nawaz Sharif in a meeting with President Obama's Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, who called on him, here on Sunday. He said, "Aid packages are at best, only stop-gap arrangements that have no lasting impact on the country's economy. On the other hand, greater trade and foreign investment help in strengthening the country's economy and generating employment opportunities, which reduces the likelihood of youth turning towards militancy and extremism."
In this context, he referred specially to the need for the Obama administration to finalise the understandings envisaged in the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement, as well as for early approval by the congress of the legislation relating to the Reconstruction Opportunity Zones. Nawaz Sharif highlighted the need for the early resumption of dialogue process between Pakistan and India. In this context, he urged the Obama administration to play a more effective role for the resolution of all outstanding issues including the Kashmir dispute.
Holbrooke assured the former prime minister that the United States viewed Pakistan as an extremely important country that deserved the help and assistance of the entire international community, in its efforts to confront militancy and to strengthen the economy. He reiterated that the Obama administration and US congress were also committed on a long-term basis to support Pakistan and developing its institutions.
He added that the US was also supportive of Pakistan's efforts to normalise its relations with India. This was essential not only for peace and stability in the region, but for both countries to confront many challenges they face.
He appreciated that Nawaz Sharif had been a strong advocate of cordial and co-operative relations between Pakistan and India. Richard Holbrooke was accompanied by Judith A. McHale, Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Rosemarie Pauli, SRAP Chief of Staff, Vali Nasr, SRAP Senior Adviser, Barney Frank, SRAP Senior Adviser, Ambassador Patterson, and Political Counsellor Bryan Hunt.
Whereas PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif was assisted by Punjab Chief Minister, Shahbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, Senator Ishaq Dar and former Ambassador to the US, Tariq Fatmi.
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