ISLAMABAD, Sept 16: Finance Minister Shaukat Aziz said on Monday Japan would provide $60 million additional fund for the Kohat tunnel project.

Speaking at a press conference, the minister said: “This commitment was made by Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi at a meeting with President Gen Pervez Musharraf during his recent visit to the United States.” The two sides also discussed Japanese assistance for Indus Highway and more credit, he added.

Terming Gen Musharraf’s US visit successful Mr Aziz said the president had fruitful discussions with the leaders US, Japan and Afghanistan.

He said, during the meeting between US and Pakistani presidents, it was agreed to continue economic cooperation with Pakistan welcoming the assistance from USAID.

The minister was hopeful that with the recommendation of US administration the $ one billion debt write-off would to go through in the 2003 budget after the approval of the Congress.

“We are also expecting some cash assistance from the US and will be working with the USAID on how much assistance the country can get for health, education and human development sectors,” Shaukat added.—APP