October 04, 2006	Wednesday	Ramazan 10, 1427

ISLAMABAD, Oct 3: The Pakistan-US Council on Tuesday started discussions in the second round on various trade related issues as part of the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA).

An official announcement issued after the meeting said the meeting discussed bilateral investment treaty (BIT), intellectual property rights, protection of pharmaceutical patents and reconstruction opportunity zones.

The delegation was given an update on institutional development and legislative process. The meeting was significant due to its potential for strengthening of bilateral relations with particular reference to trade and investment.

The delegation from Pakistan side was headed by secretary commerce Syed Asif Shah. Representatives from the ministries of foreign affairs and law, economic affairs division and industries also participated in the discussions.