ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has asserted that Pakistan wanted to forge closer economic and trade linkages with the United States (US).
He expressed these views during a meeting with senior Republican Senator Lindsey Graham on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly’s session on Palestine issue in New York.
According to a statement issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs, matters related to bilateral relations and the regional situation were discussed during the meeting. Both personalities also shed light on Afghan peace process.
During the meeting, FM Qureshi appreciated Senator Graham’s efforts for strengthening the Pakistan-US partnership, adding that Pakistan wanted to forge closer economic and trade linkages with the US.
The foreign minister and the Senator also agreed to further enhance bilateral cooperation in the agricultural sector, especially for enhancing agricultural productivity in Pakistan.
Referring to Afghan Peace Process, FM Qureshi said that Pakistan would continue to support efforts for achieving an inclusive political settlement in Afghanistan that would lead to a comprehensive ceasefire.
He stressed that peace in Afghanistan was ultimately the shared responsibility of all Afghan parties as well as key international stakeholders. The foreign minister also invited Senator Graham to visit Pakistan, which he gladly accepted.
Senator Graham also appreciated Pakistan’s support for deepening the peace process in Afghanistan, while underscoring the importance of economic engagement between the United States and Pakistan that would also contribute to regional peace and stability.
