Lu praises 'deeper' ties with Shehbaz govt

ISLAMABAD:

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu is optimistic about Pakistan's economic recovery and ongoing reforms and underscored that the United States is enjoying a stronger relationship with Pakistan under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government.

In an interview with a local private media channel, Lu highlighted the deep connection between the US and the people of Pakistan. The US assistant secretary of state also reaffirmed the United States' support for Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts.

"We are greatly encouraged by the economic recovery Pakistan is undergoing," Lu remarked during the interview, which came after his meeting with Pakistan's Finance Minister, Aurangzeb at the World Bank headquarters. Both sides discussed Pakistan's economic reforms.

Lu described Pakistan's economic reforms as essential for its future. "These reforms are not easy, but they are crucial for Pakistan's long-term stability," he said, adding that their successful implementation would benefit all segments of society, including the youth.

On security cooperation, Lu reaffirmed the US support for Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts. "We are working alongside Pakistan's military and government in their fight against terrorism," he noted. "The US wants Pakistan to thrive and succeed," Lu emphasised.