Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi stated that major global lenders are supporting Pakistan, boosting economic indicators, and attracting significant foreign investment within the next three to six months.
In an exclusive conversation, the premier's aide stated that he held comprehensive and friendly meetings with the Trump administration, engaging in substantial discussions on strengthening Pak-US relations.
He emphasized that despite the changing US administration, the fundamental issues between Islamabad and Washington remained unchanged, underscoring the continued importance of bilateral ties.
Fatemi reaffirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz prioritizes economic cooperation with neighboring countries, particularly the United States. He stated that trade and investment remained the primary focus of discussions. The PM's aide noted that the US acknowledgment of Pakistan’s progress in combating terrorism and improving economic conditions had strengthened bilateral ties.
He emphasized the significance of the US president’s recent statements on counterterrorism. He stated that Pakistan had firmly communicated to the US its zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism.
Syed Tariq stated that Pakistan recently captured and handed over a key terrorist and the main suspect in the 2021 Kabul Airport attack, who was wanted by the US. The US administration praised this action.
Pakistan arrested Mohammad Sharifullah alias Jafar, a Daesh-Khorasan operative, based on intelligence provided by America's Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
Fatemi emphasized that Pakistan had made great sacrifices in its fight against terrorism, with its people and law enforcement agencies bearing the brunt.
Earlier this week, the prime minister's assistant met with senior US officials in Washington, DC, including Lisa Kenna, Acting Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, and Ricky Gill, Senior Director for South and Central Asia at the National Security Council. They discussed advancing trade and investment relations between the two countries, particularly in sectors such as textiles and infrastructure.
During his meetings with American leaders, Fatemi emphasized the government's economic priorities. He stated that the government's efforts had improved economic indicators.
"The recognition of the improvement of economic indicators by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank is proof that the economy was moving in the right direction," he said.
The special assistant stated that Pakistan and the US have immense potential to enhance trade and economic relations, benefiting businesses in both countries and positively impacting the region's economy.
During his visit to the United States, Fatemi addressed the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, highlighting the historical ties between Pakistan and the US and urging increased American investment in Pakistan’s economy, Radio Pakistan reported.
He underscored Pakistan’s focus on strengthening ties with the US through economic cooperation and counterterrorism efforts while highlighting the country’s ongoing sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
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