ISLAMABAD: US Ambassador Donald Blome and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar discussed pressing challenges, including Afghan refugee situation, economic woes and counterterrorism efforts, according to statement released by US Embassy.

In meeting between Ambassador Blome and DPM Dar, wide array of bilateral and regional matters were discussed, according to US Mission spokesperson Jonathon Lalley. "Ambassador and Dar discussed broad range of bilateral and regional issues, including protection of Afghan refugees and asylum seekers, economic cooperation, security and counterterrorism and regional cooperation," he said.

Ambassador welcomed opportunity to hear from Deputy Prime Minister on Pakistan's priorities in lead-up to UN General Assembly as Pakistan prepares to begin its term as non-permanent member of UN Security Council, spokesperson added.

Compounding country's difficulties are escalating militant attacks, particularly in Balochistan, where over 50 people, including security forces, were killed in series of assaults last month. US Embassy condemned these attacks and reaffirmed its support for Pakistan's counterterrorism efforts.

Before deportation campaign began, Pakistan was home to over four million Afghan migrants and refugees, including approximately 1.7 million undocumented individuals, according to government estimates.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 04 2024

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.