Global challenges require strong partnership with Pakistan: US official

LAHORE: Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) of the US Embassy, Andrew Schofer, has emphasized the importance of his government’s support to Pakistan through the US-Pakistan Green Alliance framework in providing solutions to key challenges associated with climate change, malnutrition and energy needs.

During his visit to Lahore, American Consul General Lahore Kristen Hawkins, Consul General Karachi Konrad Tribble and Consul General Peshawar Shante Moore were also present with Andrew Schofer. He hosted an event to further promote cooperation in transparent energy and water management.

Speaking on the occasion, he said that tackling global challenges like climate change required creativity, strong partnerships and adoption of diverse perspectives. “In this regard, the United States is providing support to projects such as the Women in Energy Scholars Program to deal with the effects of climate change in Pakistan,” he added. Along with the American Consul Generals posted in Lahore, Karachi and Peshawar, he participated in an exhibition cricket match with women players from south and central Punjab. Andrew Schofer told the participating women players that the determination and endurance they had shown in the match would ensure their success on and off the field.

Schofer said that the US was also supporting a program to empower female students through sports in Punjab. “The US government is committed to promoting gender equality and an environment where all individuals can participate, have equal opportunities for advancement regardless of gender or gender identity. The United States is committed to empowering women and girls beyond sports, including equipping them with new skills and education and supporting broader initiatives to provide opportunities,” he maintained.

In this regard, he mentioned the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, Tech Girls Exchange Program, Women in Energy Scholars Program and said, “We are committed to supporting the aspirations and education of dynamic and talented women and girls of Pakistan.”

Andrew Schofer and Consul General Kirsten Hawkins also participated in the twentieth anniversary of the English Access Scholarship Program.

It should be noted that 27,000 Pakistani students have benefited from the Access Program since 2004, out of which 6,000 belong to Punjab. The program not only improves English language skills, but also gives young people the confidence to play a leadership role in the future, as well as opens the door to self-reliance and economic success.

On this occasion, ex-students and teachers of the program also expressed their views and highlighted the impact of the program on their lives.

US Deputy Chief of Mission Andrew Schofer and the US Consul General also visited the Walled City of Lahore where they visited the Lahore Fort, Wazir Khan Masjid and Sunehri Masjid. On this occasion, he said the US government had provided financial support to 35 cultural conservation projects across Pakistan worth $84 million, of which 20 are located in Punjab. “These projects are proof of the joint commitment of the United States and Pakistan for cultural preservation.

These projects not only strengthen the local communities but also create a sense of belonging among them, contribute to the economic development of the country and help educate future generations about the diversity and history of Pakistan,” he concluded.