US consul general visits Sialkot chamber

Consul General of US Consulate Ms Nina M.Fite, Lahore, accompanied by Brian McCleary, Commercial Counsellor and Robert Hawkins, Economic Officer, visited the Sialkot Chamber on Tuesday to discuss matters of mutual interests with the members. Addressing the members of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) she endorsed that Pakistan and US enjoys friendly relations and that both countries should make efforts to further improve trading relations.
She said that USA would do whatever possible to help Pakistan in overcoming energy crisis. She appreciated the product quality of goods produced in Sialkot mentioning that there is immense potential of these products in USA. She said that the exporters may get help and support from various US offices which are designed to help private sectors in import & export endeavours.
Brian McCleary addressing the house said that the Commercial Section of US Embassy was available for help in trading with USA. He said that a trade delegation of Sialkot Chamber may be arranged to be sent to USA for meeting the counterparts in USA and exploring business opportunities. He assured that the US Embassy would provide all possible help in arranging the visit and it's meeting with the private sector enterprises of USA.
Naeem Anwar Qureshi, President, of the Sialkot Chamber in his Welcome Speech said that Pakistan and USA enjoy most cordial relations. USA is the most important trade and investment partner of Pakistan. He said that business community of Pakistan attaches great importance to relations with United States. He mention that in 2011 bilateral trade between the two countries was US $4 billion asserting that there is dire need of concerted efforts from both sides to improve trade. He said that Pakistan has been most trust worthy ally of USA in the war against terror to play its part for ensuring peace in the world.
However, the devoted contribution of Pakistan has not been responded by USA in terms of increase economic co-operation. He stressed that USA should reciprocate contribution of Pakistan by providing market access, discounted import tariff, investment, technology transfer, help in improving health and education facilities, skills training, scientific research and infrastructure development. He said that USA may also help Pakistan in overcoming energy crises by making investment in power projects and technology transfer.