US embassy discusses economy related issues with LCCI

Jimmy R Mauldin, Second Secretary, US embassy, called on LCCI President Irfan Qaiser Sheikh and discussed all economy-related issues with particular focus on trade with India. LCCI Senior Vice President Kashif Younis Meher and Commercial officer in US Lahore Consulate Shahid Abbas were also present in the meeting. LCCI President gave the US official a detailed briefing about his recent visit to India. He informed him that both the governments need to tackle core issues as well to achieve desired results out of MFN status to India. LCCI President was of the view that MFN status to India would definitely create a win-win situation for both sides but the Indian side would have to address reservations expressed by certain sectors including pharmaceutical, automobile, cooking oil and ghee, etc. LCCI President said a huge untapped potential exists in both countries therefore apprehensions of the business community must be removed at the earliest. Irfan Qaiser Sheikh also said Non-Tariff Barriers are the biggest impediment in the way of bilateral trade between Pakistan and India and they should be dismantled on priority basis. Speaking on the occasion, the US official said that United Sates of America is desirous of a prosperous Pakistan and is ready to take every possible step in the regard.