US Ambassador to Pakistan, David Hale Thursday called on Commerce Minister Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan and discussed matters relating to trade and economy. "Trade and economic relationship is part of security but it's more important than bullets," the ambassador said. He said that the political climate in Pakistan is stable and the US is considering extending assistance to Pakistan in economic and trade areas.
"We are eyeing investment treaties and other related tools with Pakistan to proceed further on economic and trade related matters," he added. The ambassador maintained that people should look at the brighter side of Pakistan where business environment has improved for investment and business. He appreciated Pakistan's role and efforts in solidifying economic and trade relations in the region with neighbouring countries.
"We are a strong supporter of regional trade integration and connectivity in the region and Pakistan's efforts in this regard are praiseworthy," the ambassador stated. He added that the US was looking forward to sector specific reverse trade missions to work together in agriculture sector in a creative manner where a lot of potential is untapped.
Dastgir said that US remains the biggest trade partner of Pakistan and "it is our principle export destination...There is always space to grow and increase trade and business among both the countries." Referring to recent reports of major international institutions and major upswing in the stock market the Minister said Pakistan has achieved a quantum jump in environment for doing business and it's going in the right direction.
"Pakistan is emerging out of a dark environment of extremism and energy crises and has achieved substantial improvements suitable for trade," the minister added. He said Pakistan has also made significant achievements in dealing with insurgency, political and economic stability and has reconnected to the world with commitment afresh.