Pakistan, US eye fair trade deal

Washington appreciates Islamabad's role in promoting regional stability

ISLAMABAD:

Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan held a virtual meeting with Rick Switzer, Deputy US Trade Representative (USTR), to discuss bilateral trade ties, advancing ongoing negotiations and exploring new avenues of economic cooperation between the two countries, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday.

Deputy USTR Switzer appreciated Pakistan's constructive role in promoting regional stability and acknowledged its efforts in facilitating dialogue during recent regional developments. He noted that such contributions support a conducive environment for global trade and economic cooperation.

Responding to these remarks, Khan appreciated US recognition of Pakistan's constructive role in regional peace efforts and reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to responsible global engagement and mediation. He emphasised that Pakistan remains focused on promoting stability in the region, which is essential for global trade, investment flows and economic connectivity.

During the meeting, both sides held discussions on enhancing bilateral trade, with particular focus on achieving a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement. The minister highlighted Pakistan's interest in expanding trade with the United States across key sectors.

"Pakistan is committed to strengthening its trade relationship with the United States through a balanced, forward?looking framework that benefits both economies," Khan said. "We see significant potential in diversifying trade and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest,"

The US side acknowledged the potential for further strengthening bilateral trade and reiterated its willingness to work closely with Pakistan to advance ongoing negotiations. Both sides agreed that a reciprocal and forward?looking trade framework would contribute to sustainable economic engagement.

Switzer appreciated the constructive approach in the discussions, stating: "We value our engagement with Pakistan and look forward to continued collaboration to advance a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship."

Federal Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul noted that Pakistan has already held constructive and positive engagements with only a limited number of areas under discussion. He emphasised that Pakistan's technical teams remain closely engaged with their US counterparts to address outstanding matters in a constructive manner.