Lahore: Chairman Pak-US Business Council Iftikhar Ali Malik Tuesday, slamming the US decision to block 300 million dollars in aid said that Pakistan needs immediate direct access to US markets and not aid as it has suffered irreparable colossal financial loss for playing frontline role in the war on terror and US must support Pakistan to achieve its economic prosperity and self-reliance.
In his statement issued here in the wake of U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visit to Pakistan said that Pompeo must play his crucial role to diffuse recent strains between Pakistan and USA as cordial relation between both the partners is inevitable for the restoration of peace and prosperity in the region. He said the Coalition Support Fund for Pakistan has been blocked whereas the payment of USD 800 million is pending at US end.
He said United States is trying to exert pressure on Pakistan regarding failure of its policies in Afghanistan. The Trump’s policies have been criticized by even US think tanks as these policies are taking United States towards isolation. “To win the war in Afghanistan, America needs Pakistan for supply routes as well as to negotiate a lasting settlement and peace in Afghanistan. The relationship between the U.S. and Pakistan could worsen further, if the Trump Administration follows the decision to cut off aid to Pakistan,” he added.
Iftikhar Malik said he is much optimistic that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo tour to Pakistan would help reduce tension besides agreeing on promoting durable peace in the region and fostering trade between US and Pakistan.
“There must be an incentive package for Pakistan for being a front-line state in combating terrorism with the USA. There is a need for duty cut and market access for Pakistani textile goods to the USA,” he added.
