ISLAMABAD, Dec 29: Pakistan and the United States finalised here on Monday modalities for importing 2,50,000 tons of wheat and its distribution in food-deficit areas.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance Shaukat Tarin and US Ambassador Anne W. Patterson discussed wheat shipment arrangements under pre-agreed commodity financing terms envisaging transportation by five ships by the end of March next year.

An official statement said the government would ensure wheat distribution in deficit areas and maintain enough stock for provinces.

The two sides also exchanged views on the global financial crisis and its implications for the developed and developing states.

They agreed that all states must pool their human and material resources to overcome the crisis with the help of multilateral institutional support system.

Mr Tarin stressed the need for harmonising global efforts to find a solution to the current economic intricacies affecting inter-state relations.

He informed the ambassador about the government’s transparent policy framework for implementation of the Benazir Income Support Programme for the poor and needy sections of society.