Economic co-operation with California discussed

Ambassador Ashraf Jehangir Qazi on Tuesday called on Governor Arnold Schwaznegger of California, during which state of Pak-US relations, expansion of economic co-operation and welfare of Pakistani-Americans were discussed.
They exchanged views on expanding economic co-operation between Pakistan and California, which is the fifth largest economy of the world.
Official sources later stated that there is enormous scope for expansion for exports of Pakistani textiles, as well as co-operation in information technology and human resource development.
Qazi invited Governor Schwaznegger to visit Pakistan, which has a varied and captivating landscape for a tourist ranging from high attitude to snow-capped mountain landscape, gushing rivers, lush green areas, orchards, vast agricultural lands, sea, history, archaeology and craftsmanship. He accepted the offer and said he would undertake a visit of Pakistan at an appropriate time.
The Austrian-born Californian Governor said, he knows of Pakistan for its amazing and gorgeous mountainous range and snow-laden cliffs. On a lighter note, he said, "whenever I think of high altitude mountains, Pakistan comes to my mind, instantly."
Schwaznegger is known world-wide for his high class action films, such as Terminator Predator, Eraser and Commando.
He praised Pakistan's rich contribution "and continuous support" for the cause of war on terror, as a close ally of the United States.
Later at a meeting with the editorial board of the leading daily 'Sacremanto Bee,' Ambassador Qazi briefed them about the growing Pak-US ties, which were diversified, multi-year and mutually beneficial.
Pakistan, he said enjoys a pivotal position in the region and was hub of activity for Central Asia, South Asia and Middle East, particularly the Muslim world.
He said government of Pakistan was an elected parliamentary state where efforts were afoot to promote and strengthen enlightened moderation, as reiterated by President Pervez Musharraf.
Ambassador Qazi referred to successful holding of Saarc summit in Islamabad last weeks which laid firm foundations for start of peace process by agreeing to resumption of bilateral talks by Pakistan and India, and resolution of outstanding disputes, including Kashmir, by peaceful means. He elaborated policies being pursued by Pakistan in various fields.
The editorial board put forth searching queries about Pakistani-American community in California and other states.
The envoy elaborated the active and constructive role being played by the law-abiding and capable community.
The Ambassador was accompanied by Consul General Noor Mohammad Jadmani.