The restoration of Frere Hall, which includes the reopening of its library and gallery, exemplifies the AFCP’s efforts in Sindh, with similar initiatives also underway in Balochistan
By Uzma Ehtasham
KARACHI: During his recent visit to Karachi from October 22 to 25, U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome emphasized the enduring partnership between the United States and Pakistan, a relationship forged over seven decades and built on shared interests in various sectors, including health, education, energy, economic growth, and security. Notably, U.S. investments in Pakistan have surged by 50% in the past year, highlighting the robust economic ties between the two nations.
At the closing ceremony of a $350,000 grant from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) aimed at restoring the historic Frere Hall, Ambassador Blome reflected on the significance of this collaboration. He remarked, “It’s rare for one project, a partnership between the U.S. Consulate and the Sindh Exploration and Adventure Society, to sum up so much of what the United States and Pakistan work on together. After the 2002 bombing that damaged both U.S. assets and Frere Hall, we felt a responsibility to help restore what was harmed. Today, this iconic space symbolizes our bond – a commitment to cultural heritage, civic engagement, and community empowerment.”
The restoration of Frere Hall, which includes the reopening of its library and gallery, exemplifies the AFCP’s efforts in Sindh, with similar initiatives also underway in Balochistan. Additionally, to bolster Pakistan’s fight against tuberculosis (TB), Ambassador Blome handed over five state-of-the-art diagnostic vans and three mobile X-ray machines to the Government of Sindh. These advanced tools, provided through USAID’s Integrated Health System Strengthening initiative, are set to enhance early diagnosis and treatment accessibility, particularly for vulnerable populations in remote areas.
Ambassador Blome also visited Nutrilov, a local food processing company benefiting from USAID’s Investment Promotion Activity (IPA), to discuss how U.S. support fosters entrepreneurship and job creation in Pakistan. His visit showcased the production of healthy, locally made products such as cereal and granola bars, contributing to the country’s burgeoning consumer market.
In Karachi, Ambassador Blome participated in a luncheon with prominent human rights advocates to discuss pressing issues, including religious freedom and labor rights in Pakistan. His engagement with the American Business Council Executive Committee further reinforced the U.S. Mission’s commitment to supporting American businesses and promoting trade relations between the two countries.
