'US will continue cooperation to strengthen Pakistan's economy'

The United States of America would continue to extend cooperation to Pakistan to strengthen it economically and is working on various projects including establishment of Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (RoZs) and Free Market Access to Pakistani merchandise. These views were expressed by Mr Richard Jao, Political/Economic Chief of US Consulate General while speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Thursday. The LCCI Vice President Faisal Iqbal Sheikh, Ms Caroline Dow, Ms Jessica Berlow, Mr Shahid Abbass of US Consulate, LCCI Executive Committee Member Dr Shahid Raza and LCCI Secretary General Syed Muhammad Saqlain also spoke on the occasion. The US Political and Economic Chief said work on the establishment of RoZs is progressing with required pace and positive results would be coming soon. Mr Richard Jao also gave a detailed briefing to LCCI Members regarding the assistance being provided by the US to the flood affectees. He said that the United States was working hard with the international community for ensuring maximum help to overcome the losses caused by the floods. Speaking on the occasion, the LCCI Vice President Faisal Iqbal Sheikh took up the issue of free market access with the US officials and said that it has become even more important in the wake of recent floods in the country that shaken the very basis of the country’s economy. He said that early establishment of Reconstruction Opportunity Zones would also be a great service to Pakistan’s economy but unfortunately the pace of work on ROZs is gaining required momentum. The LCCI Vice President also talked about transfer of technology that is a prerequisite to the industrial and economic growth in Pakistan. He, however, appreciated the Lahore Consulate for having constant liaison with the business community in general and with the Lahore Chamber of commerce and industry in particular. The LCCI Executive Committee Member Dr Shahid Raza invited the attention of US officials towards the huge potential exist in Pakistan’s agriculture sector but could not be properly tapped for want of latest technology.

Shahid Khalil
Information Department