Pakistan, US Advance Talks on Reciprocal Trade Framework

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United States have made significant progress in talks on a proposed reciprocal trade framework and agreed to work towards finalising the agreement as soon as possible.

The progress was discussed during a virtual meeting between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer.

Both sides reviewed ongoing negotiations aimed at strengthening trade and economic cooperation.

Aurangzeb welcomed the progress made by both negotiating teams and stressed the importance of keeping the talks moving forward. He said stronger trade and investment ties with the US would support Pakistan’s export-led growth, strengthen the economy, and create more business opportunities.

He also highlighted the importance of continued cooperation with the US Export-Import Bank (EXIM) to promote trade and investment.

Ambassador Greer appreciated Pakistan’s continued engagement and welcomed progress on labour and regulatory reforms, including measures related to forced labour compliance.

Both countries agreed to continue technical-level discussions and work closely to resolve the remaining issues so the reciprocal trade framework can be completed soon.

Federal Secretary for Commerce Jawad Paul and senior officials from the Office of the US Trade Representative also attended the meeting.