 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
The U.S. Bipartisan Congressional Delegation led by Congresswoman Nita Lowey meets with President Musharraf
President Musharraf underlined the importance Pakistan attaches to a broad-based and long-term relationship with the United States. He noted with satisfaction that multifaceted cooperation in various fields was increasing. The President underscored the significance of expanding bilateral trade and economic relations. He stressed the need for initiation of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to boost trade and investment links to strengthen the bilateral relationship. The President underlined that the U.S. Congress must continue to support initiatives to broaden and deepen Pakistan-U.S. relations in diverse areas. It was also essential to ensure that any legislation adopted by Congress should reinforce, and not undercut, the strategic cooperation between the two countries. The Members of Congress underscored the strategic importance of Pakistan-U.S. relations. They expressed appreciation for the efforts being made for the socio-economic development of Pakistan. The Members of Congress recognized the value of expanded bilateral economic relationship and conveyed support for measures to create economic opportunities for the people. The President reaffirmed Pakistan's resolve to fight extremism and terrorism. He stressed that Members of Congress should play an important part in fostering better understanding of Pakistan's strong efforts to fight extremism and terrorism and enhancing counter-terrorism cooperation between the two countries. The Members of Congress lauded Pakistan's contribution to countering terrorism and extremism. They appreciated the bilateral counter-terrorism cooperation and conveyed that the U.S. would continue to support Pakistan in these endeavors. The President apprised the Congressional delegation of the comprehensive approach – combing military, political, administrative, and socio-economic aspects – being pursued by the government to effectively address the challenges of extremism and terrorism. In this context, the President highlighted the importance of creating economic opportunities in the tribal areas and mentioned the Sustainable Development Plan for FATA. President Musharraf stressed the vital stake Pakistan has in a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. The President noted the measures taken by Pakistan to strengthen security along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. The Members of Congress appreciated Pakistan's efforts to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan . The President also apprised the Congressional delegation of the steps taken to promote sustainable democracy in the country. He said that the government was committed to holding free and fair elections. The President also outlined the government's actions to improve the access and quality of education at all levels as well as for the empowerment of women. The other members of the Congressional delegation include: Congressman Ed Royce (member, House Committee on Foreign Affair, Committee on Financial Services); Congressman Adam Schiff (member, House Committee on Appropriations, House Judiciary Committee); Congressman Steve Israel (member, House Committee on Appropriations, House Committee on Armed Services); Congressman Ben Chandler (member, House Committee on Appropriations, House Committee on Science and Technology); Congressman Tim Ryan (member, House Committee on Appropriations); and Congressman Cliff Stearns (member, House Committee on Energy and Commerce, House Committee on Veterans' Affairs). During the meeting, Foreign Minister Khurshid M. Kasuri and the U.S. Embassy's Charge d' Affaires, Peter W. Bodde, were present.
Islamabad , 07 April, 2007 |
|
A 7-member bipartisan Congressional delegation, led by Congresswoman Nita Lowey, called on President General Pervez Musharraf in Rawalpindi. Congresswoman Lowey is member of the House Committee on Appropriations and is Chairperson of the Subcommittee on Foreign Operations Appropriations. She is also a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Pakistan-U.S. relations and matters of common interest, including Afghanistan, were discussed.