Other members of the delegation included Jeffrey Duncan, Henry Cuellar, Gene Green, Michael Fitzpatrick, Nick Palarino, Charles Snyder and Anne Bennet.
Discussing Pak-Us bilateral relations and the recent development, the President called for mutual understanding of each others point of view and a need for greater interaction at all levels to avoid any misunderstanding and negative impressions that would potentially endanger close working relationship at this critical hour.
Zardari emphasised upon need for both sides to exercise restraint and avoid uncalled for public criticism as it undermines efforts to stabilise the equation and working closely for shared goals.
He said that the democratic dispensation of Pakistan believes in trade rather than aid as a solution to the weak and stressed economy.
The president also called for expediting ROZs legislation terming it crucial for creating economic opportunities particularly for the people of militancy hit areas.
Talking about war against militants and its impact on Pakistan’s economy, Zardari said that the combined effect of war against militancy and the recent natural calamities have adversely impacted Pak economy thus restricting Government efforts to provide economic relief to the people. He said that under prevailing situation international assistance in various projects was crucial.
The president reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance of its abiding interest in the stability of Afghanistan. He said that Pakistan has always called for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned solution.
Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Secretary to president Malik Asif and additional Secretary Foreign affairs Dr Asad M Khan assited the president during the meeting.
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