US ambassador Blome calls on Chairman Senate

ISLAMABAD: The United States (US) Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome met with Senator Yusuf Raza Gillani on Wednesday to discuss ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Blome expressed optimism about the talks and commended Pakistan’s efforts at revitalising its economy. He also talked about the potential for further economic cooperation between Pakistan and the US, noting positive economic indicators shown by Pakistan, such as a downward trend in inflation and high dollar reserves.

Read more: IMF executive board to consider $1.1 billion funding for Pakistan

Blome mentioned that a favourable feedback from the IMF could attract foreign investors to Pakistan.

During the meeting, Blome talked about enhancing cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in the IT sector, and mentioned the flourishing gaming industry in Pakistan.

The parties also discussed streamlining the visa process, with Blome acknowledging the challenges faced by Pakistani students and businessmen in obtaining a US visa.

Gillani talked about the cooperation between the US and Pakistan across various sectors. He stated that the two countries could further enhance trade links for mutual benefit. He said that there was a need for increased cooperation to boost trade volume between the two countries.

Read more: Donald Blome extends support for Pakistan’s democracy in meeting with PM Shehbaz

The parties discussed strengthening relations, with Gillani noting that the US is Pakistan’s largest trading partner. He also informed Ambassador Blome about ongoing efforts to promote ‘mutually beneficial ties” and increase people-to-people contacts through “parliamentary diplomacy”.

Meanwhile, the US ambassador congratulated Senator Gillani on his election and wished him a successful tenure as Chairman of the Senate.