ISLAMABAD, July 29: The Pakistani government is expecting important announcements, including resumption of ministerial-level bilateral strategic dialogue, by US Secretary of State John Kerry when he finally reaches here on July 31.

Secretary Kerry’s official engagements, meanwhile, are scheduled for Aug 1. No official announcements about the visit have been made as yet because of security concerns.

Mr Kerry’s visit was preceded by haggling over the schedule of the trip for days which made the trip look uncertain. However, an intense desire on both sides to meet ensured that they finally get to meet.

Agenda priorities for Pakistan at talks with Secretary Kerry are economy and trade and revival of ministerial-level strategic dialogue, whereas the Americans are keen to get unconditional support from Islamabad for putting the stalemated Doha process (for reconciliation in Afghanistan) back on track and see fast-tracked normalisation of Pak-Afghan ties.

Mr Kerry after his early morning meetings at the Foreign Office would visit Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for further discussions after which a presser is being planned.

Prime Minister Sharif wants to hold a joint media conference with Secretary Kerry, but the Foreign Office was reportedly opposing it. Up till now the plan is to hold the media conference at the Prime Minister House, but Adviser on Foreign Affairs and National Security Sartaj Aziz would stand with Mr Kerry instead of Mr Sharif.

Sources say Mr Kerry would make a couple of major announcements, including resumption of strategic dialogue and economic support during the media interaction. He may also announce support for Diamer-Bhasha Dam.

DRONE ATTACKS: The Foreign Office on Monday again warned the United States that continued drone attacks could affect bilateral ties. “These drone strikes have a negative impact on the mutual desire of both countries to forge a cordial and cooperative relationship.”