The United States has welcomed the staff-level agreement reached between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), saying Washington’s support for Islamabad’s economic success is unwavering, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Wednesday.

During his daily news briefing in Washington on Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said the United States welcomed the progress that has been made between the IMF and Pakistan in having reached a staff-level agreement.

Matthew Miller said their support for Pakistan’s economic success is unwavering and they will continue to engage with Pakistan through technical engagements and continue to strengthen their trade and investment ties, all of which are priorities for their bilateral relationship.

Miller said: “We believe Pakistan has a lot of hard work ahead to be on a long-term sustainable path to economic recovery and prosperity, but we will continue to stand by them through that process.”

Replying to a question, Miller said that the United States does not ask Pakistan or any other country to choose between the United States and China or to choose between the United States and any other country. “Our relations with Pakistan build on our close people-to-people ties, and we will continue to seek ways to expand our partnership and economic ties,” he added.

The State Department spokesperson said that their economic cooperation with Pakistan reflects their vision for the region as one of – comprised of nations that are independent, strong, and prosperous and our relationships are based on a spirit of respect and partnership.