by Ansar Mahmood Bhatti

ISLAMABAD, FEB 23 (DNA) – US Ambassador David Hale has said US and Pakistan have worked closely in various fields for last 70 years adding this cooperation shall continue to grow even in the coming days.

The US ambassador expressed these views while speaking on the occasion of National Day and President’s Day reception, held at the US embassy premises.

Federal Interior Minister Prof. Ahsan Iqbal was the chief guest. National anthems of both countries were played before the formal cake cutting ceremony.

A large number guests including members of the civil society; diplomats; media; government functionaries and representatives of the business community attended the reception.

The US has helped Pakistan supply healthcare for 9.4 million women and children and trained over 50, 0000 new health practitioners as a result now Pakistani can now live longer and healthy lives.

Talking about trade relations the US Ambassador David Hale said bilateral trade and just topped 663 billion rupees a year which is all time higher with American standing firm with Pakistan’s largest market.

He said the American Alumni network has increased manifold touching mark of over 25,000 members, which is largest of its kind in the world. This speaks volumes for the extensive cooperation between the two countries in the education sector.

Academic exchange programmes such as Fulbright have prepared over 2,000 PhD and graduates students and Pakistani government pledged 25 million dollars to support next generation Fulbright scholars and future leaders, which is an evidence of shared commitment and interest.

In security sector, the Ambassador said America has trained over 28,000 law enforcing officers besides providing the Pakistan police with various tools. For 70 years we have worked together for those most in need. US has provide sufficient grants to help Afghan refugees also.

He said America has built roads, dams, schools and hospitals all across Pakistan. Ambassador Hale said we would continue to strive for better, safer and most prosperous lives for Pakistani and the Americans. =DNA