ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Makhdoom Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani welcomed US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome to the Parliament House on Wednesday for a constructive dialogue aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and fostering mutual interests.During the meeting, both sides engaged in detailed deliberations on various aspects of the enduring friendship between Pakistan and the United States. Ambassador Blome extended warm congratulations to Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani on being elected as Chairman Senate and conveyed his best wishes for a successful tenure.Expressing Pakistan's commitment to nurturing its long-standing friendly ties with the US, the Chairman Senate emphasized the importance of further promoting parliamentary relations between the two nations. He underscored the pivotal role that parliamentary contacts can play in enhancing public and legislative engagement.Recognizing the significant economic partnership between the two countries, Chairman Senate Gillani highlighted the US as Pakistan's largest trading partner. He expressed gratitude to the US government for its collaboration across various sectors and emphasized the need to enhance trade links for mutual benefit. Gillani also stressed the need for increased cooperation to boost trade volume.Ambassador Blome commended the new economic team of Pakistan and expressed optimism regarding the ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the IMF. He praised the efforts of the Pakistan economic team and emphasized the potential for further economic cooperation between Pakistan and the US.Acknowledging the positive economic indicators of Pakistan, Blome noted the downward trend in inflation and high dollar reserves, stating that the IMF's positive feedback would encourage investors. He also highlighted the flourishing gaming industry in Pakistan and called for enhanced cooperation in the digital sector.Both discussed the importance of parliamentary contacts. Chairman Senate appreciated the fact that a strong Parliamentary Caucus e xists in the US Congress for promotion of bilateral ties and we are in the process of reconstitution of the friendship group as a consequence of the recent Senate elections. This would help promote mutually beneficial ties and give Parliamentary diplomacy a chance to build strong people-to-people contacts.Chairman Senate underscored the challenges faced by students and businessmen in obtaining US visas and called for further streamlining the visa process.US Ambassador Blome acknowledged Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts and reiterated US support in combating terrorism, recognizing the significant impact of terrorism on the country.Chairman Senate said it is high time for peace in Palestine and called for a ceasefire in Gaza. Ambassador Blome agreed with the views of Chairman Senate.The meeting between Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani and Donald Blome underscores the shared commitment of Pakistan and the United States to fostering peace, stability, and cooperation in the region.