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PR. No.217/2008

Date: 19/07/2008    

U.S. UNDER SECRETARY REUBEN JEFFERY CALLS ON THE FOREIGN MINISTER

U.S. Under Secretary for Economic, Energy and Agricultural Affairs Reuben Jeffery called on Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Petroleum & Natural Resources today. During the meeting, bilateral relations were discussed, with particular focus on economic cooperation.

The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of a broad-based and long-term relationship between the two countries, going beyond counter-terrorism cooperation and extending to deeper trade and economic interaction as well as people-to-people contacts. The Foreign Minister particularly emphasized the need for enhanced market access for Pakistani products in the U.S. , collaboration in the energy sector, and cooperation in the field of agriculture.

Under Secretary Reuben Jeffery underlined the importance the U.S. attached to its relationship with Pakistan and its support for strengthening bilateral trade and economic ties. He also expressed support for closer bilateral cooperation in the energy and agriculture sector.

Matters relating to Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs) and Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) were also discussed.

U.S. Ambassador Anne W. Patterson also attended the meeting. Mr. Zafar Mahmood, Secretary Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources was also present.

Islamabad

19 July 2008