Blome, CM underscore need for increased economic cooperation

LAHORE: The caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a productive meeting with US Ambassador Donald Blome at the Chief Minister’s Office, addressing a range of mutual interests, opportunities for enhancing bilateral trade and investment, agricultural collaboration, and promotion of cooperation for historical building restoration.

US Ambassador Donald Blome re-affirmed his commitment to expanding economic relations between the United States and Pakistan, as well as fostering cooperation in other areas of mutual interest. He pledged to further strengthen ongoing collaborations with the Punjab government across various sectors.

During their discussion, the CM emphasized the multifaceted nature of Pakistan-US relations. Under the agreement to establish a sister-state relationship between Punjab and California, the focus is on fostering trade and economic ties, with a particular interest in benefiting from California’s expertise in agriculture, especially seed development. He expressed a warm welcome for American support in restoring historical landmarks across Punjab.

In a cordial exchange, the CM extended congratulations to Kirsten Hawkins, the newly appointed US Consul General in Lahore, and conveyed his best wishes for her tenure.

The meeting also saw the participation of US Consul General Kristin Hawkins, Political and Economic Chief Nicholas Katsakis, Political and Economic Officer Douglas Johnston, Political Specialist Sadaf Saad and others.

Moreover, the CM Mohsin Naqvi conducted an extensive visit Wednesday to oversee preparations for the Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali bin Usman Al Hajveri (R.A). He formally inaugurated the Mahfil-e-Sama at the Sama hall, where he attentively listened to renowned Qawwali performances. He commended the Mahfil Sama’s ambiance, with thousands of devoted attendees joining the occasion.

The CM visited food stalls and the food preparation area. He personally sampled the food intended for devotees to ensure its quality. He also sought feedback from the attendees, who expressed satisfaction with the food’s quality. He visited the “milk Sabeel” location, examining the milk quality and distributing it among the devotees. He then proceeded to inspect the central control room of Data Darbar, meticulously reviewing security arrangements.

The CM engaged with devotees during his visit, attentively listening to their concerns and promptly issuing on-the-spot orders for their redressal. At the shrine of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali bin Usman Al Hajveri (R.A.), he offered special prayers, seeking the country’s security, stability, peace, development, prosperity, and the elevation of martyrs.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2023