Ed Gillespie, former Chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC), on Saturday supported the contention that a Pak-US Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would be an immense help to assist Pakistan tide over impact of devastating October 6 earthquake.
Talking to newsmen while attending a fundraiser at the residence of a noted Pakistani-American, he said, "it's a tragedy that has touched hearts of all of us-it is such a compelling story."
Gillespie said "for many of us here, you want to be helpful but you don't know where and how- and to have a specific charity to contribute, to really have an opportunity to put our money where the heart is, and to be helpful."
He viewed that "this is important time to make the point (for FTA), and thus, we will help benefit Pakistan in the recovery."
"FTA will help," he agreed, and added, "we have seen trade agreements and relationship take effect. We have seen where it does make a positive impact."
Responding to a question of Bush administration's initiative to involved private sector for assistance of Pakistan, Gillespie said "it speaks how important this administration in our country considers our relationship with Pakistan.
He said it was encouraging to note that United States was rendering a remarkable assistance, and on ground help.