WASHINGTON - Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif appreciated House Foreign Affairs Committee's constructive role in supporting Pakistan-United States security and economic cooperation.
The Prime Minister was talking to Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Rep Eliot Engel (D-NY), who welcomed the Prime Minister and his delegation at the Capitol Hill on Wednesday.
Chairmen and Ranking Members of sub-committees of Foreign Affairs Committee also attended the meeting.
The Prime Minister informed the House Foreign Affairs Committee about the upturn in Pakistan's economy and government's efforts to stimulate economic development, sustain fiscal stability and enhance regional economic connectivity.
Highlighting sacrifices of Pakistan's civilians, military and law enforcement personnel, the Prime Minister also outlined Pakistan's resolve to defeat terrorist networks through a comprehensive set of measures laid out in the National Action Plan. The Prime Minister remarked that operation Zarb-e-Azb had achieved its initial targets and was in a decisive phase.
Illustrating his vision of a peaceful neighborhood, Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to remain engaged with the Afghan leadership in dealing with the common challenges.
The Prime Minister also briefed members of the Congress about his recent peace initiative towards India announced in the UN General Assembly session to resolve outstanding disputes including Kashmir.
Committee members interacted with the Prime minister on issues of mutual interest including Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts and economic development. Matters related to peace and security in the region also came up for discussion.
The Prime Minister was joined by Finance Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, Khawaja Muhammad Asif Defence Minister, Advisor on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi and Ambassador Jalil Abbas Jilani.