US envoy Donald Blome calls on NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq

Leaders vow to enhance public relations and promote peace

ISLAMABAD:

US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome called on National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq on Saturday at the Parliament House. 

The discussion focused on bilateral relations and other matters of mutual interest. Blome congratulated Ayaz on his appointment as speaker and expressed his best wishes.

Ayaz said Pakistan gives great importance to the long-standing friendly relations with the United States.

The two acknowledged the need to further promote parliamentary relations between both countries and that these terms play a crucial role in promoting public relations.

The US envoy reiterated America's commitment to continue its support for the strengthening of the democratic process in Pakistan.

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Earlier, Blome said collective efforts are necessary for promoting regional and international peace and prosperity and also expressed confidence in the incoming government's ability to pull off the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, following the February 8 general elections in Pakistan.

While speaking to a gathering of select journalists at the US Consulate General in Karachi, he said collaborating with the new government would be a top priority.

“And our belief is it will take a concerted effort to ensure it moves in the right direction. If Pakistan maintains a consistent commitment to economic reforms, those reforms will build certainty and confidence for investors and enable economic growth fuelled by sustainable, inclusive, and …. economic development,” the US diplomat said.

“We are confident Pakistan can do this and break free from an over-reliance on unsustainable debt,” he added.

The US diplomat further noted that Pakistan was the largest export market and the US sees huge potential for increasing two-way trade and investment between our two countries, and it's been a major priority for me as ambassador.