18 December 2004	Saturday	05 Ziqa'ad 1425

ISLAMABAD, Dec 17: Research and training facilities are of vital importance for enhancing the efficiency and capacity of the legislators, specially the younger ones.

This was stated by National Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Amir Hussain while talking to US Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker who called on him here on Friday.

The speaker said appointment of an experienced diplomat as ambassador reflected the importance the United States attached to its relations with Pakistan. He expressed the confidence that Mr Crocker would play an important role in promotion of Pakistan-US relations.

Mr Hussain thanked the United States for providing support and assistance for strengthening of legislature through research and training for parliamentarians in Pakistan.

He also highlighted the role of the US in education section in Pakistan. He explained to the US envoy the nature of relationship between the Federation and the provinces in Pakistan.

He also apprised the ambassador of working of the parliament, parliamentary committees, devaluation of power and the role and importance of women in representative bodies.

Speaking on the occasion, the ambassador said Pakistan and the United States were trusted friends, adding that the American government would continue to support strengthening of legislative programmes in Pakistan. Mr Crocker said the 9/11 commission report had acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan's role in war against terrorism.