US ambassador hails Frere Hall restoration as ‘powerful symbol’ of Pak-US bond

US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome on Thursday said that restoration and rehabilitation of the Frere Hall, making it structurally safer and more accessible for public gatherings and for the future, is a powerful symbol of the bond between the United States and Pakistan.

Addressing a project completion ceremony for conservation and rehabilitation of historical Frere Hall and Library, he congratulated the project management on completing the restoration project, which was funded by the US Department of State through the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservations (AFCP).

Ambassador Blome said the restoration of the Frere Hall symbolizes the shared values and collaborative spirit between the US and the Pakistan.

He said that it is an honour to join in the event in which we are celebrating the completion of remarkable project acknowledging the efforts of AFCP. He said that after the completion of conservation and rehabilitation of the Frere Hall it will continue to serve as a space for Karachi’s vibrant artistic community and as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Ambassador Blome said the Frere Hall had cultural and educational significance and the restoration project reinforced its role as a centre for civic engagement and learning in the heart of Karachi.

He appreciated the role of the Sindh Exploration and Adventure Society (SEAS) for their leadership in the restoration effort, led by Dr Asma Ibrahim and Dr Kaleemullah Lashari.

The project, which spanned three years, involved local students in learning the skills of preservation, reflecting a commitment not only to cultural heritage but also to skill development and economic growth.

Ambassador Blome also admired the intricate craftsmanship of the staircase, bookshelves, and gallery, all of which have been meticulously restored.

He noted that the floors and doors are a testament to the skills of the craftsmen involved in bringing the historical site back to life, ensuring that the Frere Hall remains a strong cultural landmark for generations to come. He also highlighted the broader contributions of the AFCP in Sindh and said that the Frere Hall project marks the completion of four major cultural preservation efforts in the province as prior projects include the restoration of the Makli Necropolis, the Varun Dev Temple on Manora Island, and the Nusserwanji Building at the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture.

He said the AFCP’s next focus will be on a project in Balochistan, in collaboration with the Balochistan Cultural Department, to restore the Mehrgarh Museum in Quetta.

The US ambassador encouraged all to think about future projects that can further strengthen the cultural preservation partnership between the US and Pakistan, calling on local stakeholders to share their ideas with the US Consulate General in Karachi.

He also expressed his gratitude to the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation for their support, Minister Zulfiqar Shah for attending the event, and the craftsmen and SEAS for their dedication to restoring and preserving the Frere Hall.

Minister for Culture Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah thanked the US government for its support for the restoration and rehabilitation of the historical Frere Hall.

Earlier, project director Dr Asma Ibrahim told the audience about the journey of restoration and rehabilitation of the Frere Hall and gave a presentation on the completion of the project.