Geneva, 10 January 2023 (TDI): The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif held an official meeting with the Deputy Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Isabel Coleman.
The meeting took place on the fringes of the ‘Climate Resilient Conference’ in Palais des Nations, Geneva. The conference was co-chaired by Pakistan & United Nations (UN) in Geneva to help Pakistan after the devastating floods.
In the wake of rehabilitation, resilience, and rebuilding of Pakistan, the conference helped Pakistan gain pledges of over $9 billion from various nations and organizations.
Remarks by the participants
Both officials talked about the bilateral relations between Pakistan and the United States (US) as well as the prospects for strengthening them.
In this vein, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that a new era had started in the ties between Pakistan and the US. The relations are based on mutual respect and a desire for sustainable development.
“The two countries have the common objective of fighting against terrorism and extremism. Pakistan has a categorical and clear viewpoint on this matter.” Sharif reiterated.
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The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the US people, government, and USAID for their assistance to flood victims.
He highlighted that different sections of Sindh and Baluchistan still have standing water from the recent rains and floods. The winter weather had made things more difficult for those affected by the flooding.
Sharif claimed that Pakistan’s government is engaged in projects for sustainable development and smart agriculture.
Along these lines, he added, “The government is making efforts to modernize the agriculture sector to make the farmers prosperous and bring foreign exchange to the country.”
He talked about the 10,000 megawatts solarization projects of the government. “The project would help reduce dependence on imported fuel, bring down the import bill, and generate environment-friendly electricity.” The Prime Minister explained.
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During her turn, Isabel informed the Prime Minister about the steps taken by USAID to help Pakistan’s flood-affected people.
She also reiterated the announcement of additional financial assistance of $100 million for the flood victims, and the desire to extend full cooperation to Pakistan in the future.
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