US to support Pakistan’s economic development: Blome

ISLAMABAD: US Ambassador Donald Blome on Wednesday said that his country was committed to supporting Pakistan’s economic development.

“Our mutual prosperity depends on free, open, competitive markets where trade and investment can thrive,” a US Embassy statement quoted the ambassador as saying.

Blome said that his recent visit to Karachi reaffirmed the commitment of the United States to strengthening ties with Pakistan in business, trade, jobs and education.

He said that his engagements emphasized shared goals of economic growth, opportunity and respect for human dignity.

The US ambassador said that at a dinner with business leaders, he highlighted the importance of expanding trade and investment, including by inviting Pakistani businesspeople to participate in the SelectUSA 2025 Investment Summit.

He said that he also met with human rights advocates at the Sindh Human Rights Commission and reiterated the US support for advancing religious freedoms and civil rights of those living in Pakistan. “The United States stands with Pakistan in its pursuit to safeguard the rights of all citizens,” he said, commending the SHRC’s efforts.

Blome also visited the Urban Forest in Clifton and the US-Pakistan Friendship Garden and planted ‘neem’ and ‘moringa’ trees. “The garden and these new trees represent the strong partnership between the United States and Pakistan and our continued shared commitment to the environment and the importance of green spaces to our people and our planet.” The ambassador highlighted the US-sponsored Network of Organisations Working for People with Disabilities Pakistan and said education transformed lives. “We are proud to support educational and professional programmes that promote freedom, dignity and equality for all,” he said. Blome said that he also met with Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and Governor Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori, and discussed enhanced trade, economic relations and US investment in the province. He said that his Karachi visit reinforced the ongoing partnership between the United States and Pakistan to achieve mutual goals and build a brighter future.