U.S. Chamber Recommends More Economic Engagement With Pakistan

Releases Report on Strengthening Commercial Ties as Obama Administration Develops Comprehensive Strategy

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and its affiliate the U.S.-Pakistan Business Council (USPBC) today released a report calling for expanded bilateral economic cooperation with Pakistan, which is essential to achieving security goals for both countries.

"In addition to its strategic elements, a broad-based relationship with Pakistan needs to include enhanced cooperation in the areas of trade and investment and energy security," said Myron Brilliant, the Chamber's senior vice president of International Affairs and member of the board of directors of the USPBC. "We are actively working with both governments to strengthen our economic ties."

The Chamber's report urges the administration to take steps to bolster U.S.-Pakistan commercial engagement, which would create new opportunities for U.S. businesses and jobs in both countries. It calls on the administration to work with Pakistan to boost intellectual property rights protection to foster U.S. private sector investment in the country.

"Our report also urges U.S. government officials to work with Pakistan to address bilateral trade and investment opportunities," said Jay Collins, the chairman of the board of directors of the USPBC. "Our members stand ready to contribute to efforts to expand commercial relations between the two countries."

Key recommendations for the Obama administration and members of Congress include:

• Obtain passage of U.S. foreign assistance legislation showing that the United States is committed to ensuring Pakistan's long-term prosperity.
• Address unfair trade and investment practices with Pakistan to ensure that American companies find a level playing field.
• Approve legislation creating Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs) to promote economic development in Pakistan.
• Conclude a high-standard bilateral investment treaty with Pakistan to provide safeguards for U.S. investors.

The complete report is available at: www.uschamber.comhttp://www.uschamber.com/publications/reports/0903_uspakistan.htm

The U.S.-Pakistan Business Council is the premier organization in Washington dedicated to the advancement of U.S. commercial engagement with Pakistan.

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

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