ISLAMABAD: The business community on Tuesday expressed hope that Prime Minister Imran Khan’s ongoing visit to the United States of America would bring the two countries closer besides seeking direct market access on zero rate duty to help stabilise its economy.

In a press statement, Founder Chairman Pak-US Business Council Iftikhar Ali Malik said Pakistan needs immediate direct access to the US markets and not aid. He also stressed the need for negotiation on bilateral investment treaty for promotion of investment.

“Joint efforts are needed to further cement the existing economic ties between the private sectors in Pakistan and the US,” he added.

Mr Malik who is also Senior Vice President of Saarc Chamber said that USA was the largest trading partner of Pakistan with trade volume $6.7 billion.

Pakistan’s major exports to the United States include sports goods, surgical goods, leather and finished leather products, textile, cotton yarn, garments, carpets, and rice.

Pakistan’s main imports from United States are electrical machinery, equipment, medicines, dry fruits, perfumes, coffee, dates and other food items.

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2019