ISLAMABAD: American Ambassador in Pakistan Richard G Olson met Finance Minister Ishaq Dar to discuss break-up for the disbursement of $532 million assistance package under Kerry Lugar Act and agenda for the upcoming visit of Secretary of State John Kerry to Pakistan in January 2015.
The US ambassador discussed agenda for the expected visit of Secretary Kerry to Pakistan in January 2015. He also expressed grief and offered condolences to the Minister on the recent Peshawar tragedy. On the occasion, the Minister said that this was one of the saddest incidents in the history of Pakistan but the government had made a firm resolve that the issue of terrorism would be dealt with utmost force.
It is to be noted that the US congress has notified a $532 million assistance package for Pakistan. Olson discussed with the Minister civilian assistance package under Kerry Lugar Act.
He also congratulated the Minister on the successful completion of 4th and 5th IMF review and taking the reserve to $15 billion, which has availed the Government the opportunity to become a member of IBRD (International Bank for Reconstruction and Development) and enjoy better financial packages.
The Finance Minister remarked that the government of Pakistan should spend a large amount of the assistance under the Kerry Lugar Act for the rehabilitation of the IDPs of North Waziristan Agency.
The Finance Minister discussed with the Ambassador the speedy delivery of Boeing aircrafts which the PIA has to acquire to upgrade its fleet.
