DM Monitoring
ISLAMABAD: The United States is enjoying a stronger relationship with Pakistan under Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s government, according to Donald Lu, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia.
In an interview with a local private media channel, Lu expressed optimism over Pakistan’s economic recovery and ongoing reforms.
“We are greatly encouraged by the economic recovery Pakistan is undergoing,” Lu remarked during the interview, following his recent meeting with Pakistan’s Finance Minister, Aurangzeb, at the World Bank headquarters. They discussed Pakistan’s economic reforms, which Lu described as essential for its future.
“These reforms are not easy, but they are crucial for Pakistan’s long-term stability,” he said, adding that their successful implementation would benefit all segments of society, including the youth.
On security cooperation, Lu reaffirmed the United States’ support for Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts. “We are working alongside Pakistan’s military and government in their fight against terrorism,” he noted.
He also highlighted the deep connection between the US and the people of Pakistan, stating that the United States is committed to the country’s success. “The US wants Pakistan to thrive and succeed,” Lu emphasised.
Lu, was previously accused by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding leader Imran Khan of being involved in the parliamentary vote of no-confidence that ousted the former prime minister.
Earlier, US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome called on PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz here on Monday.
Matters of mutual interest, the promotion of Pakistan-US relations, and cooperation in various fields were discussed in the meeting, says a handout.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said: “Pakistan and America have excellent cordial relations, and we are determined to further strengthen them. There is immense potential in Pakistan-US trade, which needs to be utilised.”
She said the PML-N government had set new standards of ‘good governance’ and transparency. Pakistan has achieved great success in the war against terrorism and extremism, she said.
Mr Blome discussed increasing trade opportunities for both countries.
The government handout did not mention any discussion between Nawaz Sharif and the US ambassador.
Earlier, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh says Pakistan and the United States share long standing relationship built on shared values, mutual respect and common ideals.
He stated this while addressing an investiture ceremony in Washington D.C to award Congressman Alexander N. Green with the Sitara-i-Khidmat for his outstanding contribution in strengthening Pakistan-US relations and his role in combating Islamophobia.
Speaking on this occasion, the Ambassador said that the two nations, for more than seven decades, have collaborated on multiple fronts, promoting peace, advancing economic development, and addressing global challenges.
Recalling the visit of Congressman Al Green to Pakistan during devastating floods of 2022, the Ambassador observed that Representative Al Green not only travelled to Pakistan to express his solidarity with the people of Pakistan at a most difficult time but he also returned to the US Congress to passionately advocate for timely assistance.
