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PR. No.197/2008

Date: 30/06/2008   

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION CALLS ON THE PRESIDENT

A Congressional delegation led by Senator Benjamin Cardin called on President Pervez Musharraf in Rawalpindi today. Bilateral relations, Pakistan-U.S. counter-terrorism cooperation and regional situation were discussed in the meeting.

President Musharraf underlined the importance Pakistan attached to its relations with the U.S. He reiterated Pakistan's firm resolve to fighting terrorism and extremism. In this regard, the President highlighted Government's comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy combining political, military and socio-economic development measures. The President appreciated Congressional support for Pakistan's counterterrorism initiatives, namely FATA Development Plan, Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs) and capacity building of the Frontier Corps (FC). He emphasized the need for market access for Pakistani products in the U.S.

The visiting Members of Congress conveyed their support for the strategic relationship between Pakistan and the United States. They appreciated Pakistan's commitment to combating extremism, and reaffirmed their support for Pakistan's counterterrorism efforts and social development goals, and called for strengthening the strategically important relationship.

The bipartisan delegation led by Senator Benjamin Cardin (Democrat-Maryland) includes Congressman Zach Wamp (Republican-Tennessee), Congressman Robert Aderholt (Republican-Alabama), Congressman Mike McIntyre (Democrat-North Carolina) and Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (Democrat-California).

Islamabad

30 June 2008