Khar for moving forward on positive aspects of Pakistan-US ties

Khar wants better cooperation on strategic dialogue, infrastructure, development projects.

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar on Monday underlined the need to continue to focus on positive narratives in the troubled Pakistan-US relationship such as the recent revival of bilateral strategic dialogue process, infrastructure and development projects and strengthening of economic and commercial relations.

The foreign minister met the newly appointed US Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson, who paid a courtesy call on her at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday.

Khar welcomed the Ambassador and underscored the importance of Pakistan's relations with US in terms of strategic partnership approaches.

She expressed the hope that during his tenure ties would be further strengthened and the positive trajectory will be maintained.

The foreign minister particularly outlined the important role of US assistance in the development of Pakistan’s energy sector.

Ambassador Olson reaffirmed his government's commitment to work with the government of Pakistan to achieve shared objectives which also included peace and stability in the region.

He appreciated Pakistan's sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. Olson briefed the Foreign Minister on the working group meetings in the coming months on economy and finance, energy, defence and water.

The two sides also discussed the ongoing developments in the region.