SIALKOT: US Consul General Zachary Harkenrider says his country is keen on developing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan.

Addressing a meeting of traders, industrialists and exporters held at Siallcot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) here on Thursday, he said Pakistan`s economy was showing positive and encouraging signs.

SCCI SVP Mir Alamgir Meyer, VP Malik Naseer Ahmed, Chairman Pakistan Gloves Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PGMEA) Muhammad YounasandChairmanPakistanHosieryManufacturers Association (PHMA) Muhammad Rafi Soni were also present on the occasion.

Mr Harkenrider said Washington wanted long-term cooperation with Islamabad, particularly in oil and gas sectors. He said the US was initiating several projects to strengthen Pakistan`s SMEs, energy and agriculture sectors.

`The US is also focusing on identifying new ways to promote bilateral trade with Pakistan, besides ensuring an easy access of Pakistani products to markets of America,` he said.

The consul general said: `Around $150 million are available for small businesses in Pakistan.

He said despite challenges the Pakistan government had made several decisions to improve trade and industrial sectors.

Mr. Zachary Harkenrider lauded the export culture of Sialkot and said the business community was a source of inspiration for the world.

He said the US was Pakistan`s largest trading partner and many American companies were operating here.