ISLAMABAD - US Ambassador to Pakistan David Hale said on Thursday that his country wants to further strengthen economic & trade ties with Pakistan.

"Trade and economic relationship is part of security but it's more important than bullets," he said during a call on meeting with Minister for Commerce Khurram Dastgir here. He further said that the political climate in Pakistan is stable and US is considering extending assistance to Pakistan in economic & trade areas.

"We are eyeing on investment treaties and other related tools with Pakistan to proceed further on economic and trade related matters," he added.

"People should look at the brighter sides of Pakistan where business environment has improved for investment and business," the ambassador emphasized.

Ambassador Hale appreciated Pakistan's role and efforts in solidifying economic and trade relations in the region with neighboring countries.

"We are strong supporter of regional trade integration and connectivity in the region and Pakistan's efforts in this regard are praiseworthy," the ambassador mentioned.

He was of the view that they are looking forward for sector specific reverse trade missions to work together in agriculture sector in a creative manner where lot of potential is untapped.

Minister for Commerce Khurram Dastgir Khan said that US remains the biggest trade partner of Pakistan and it is our principle export destination. "There is always space to grow and increase trade and business among both the countries," the minister said.

Referring to recent reports of major international institutions and major upswing in the stock market, the minister said Pakistan has achieved a quantum jump in environment for doing business and it's going in right direction.

"Pakistan is emerging out of dark environment of extremism and energy crises and has achieved substantial improvements suitable for trade," the minister added.

He said that Pakistan has also made significant achievements in dealing with insurgency, political and economic stability and has reconnected to the world with commitment afresh.