LAHORE: On her inaugural go to to Lahore, US Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) Natalie Baker, joined by US Consul Basic Kristin Hawkins, explored how US-Pakistan partnerships have been strengthening bilateral commerce and funding, cultural preservation efforts, and academic alternatives for youth in Punjab.
DCM Baker met with representatives of US companies to debate how American firms are producing high-quality jobs for Pakistani youth and giving again to Pakistani communities via a variety of company initiatives.
In a powerful present of help for gender fairness, DCM Baker and Consul Basic Hawkins performed cricket with feminine athletes on the Nationwide Excessive-Efficiency Heart (NHPC), the place DCM Baker highlighted US-funded initiatives empowering younger Pakistani girls via sports activities, change programmes, and extra.
Over the previous yr, america has supported efforts at 14 faculties and universities throughout Punjab to increase alternatives for girls and ladies to take part in sports activities and develop management expertise.
“America is deeply dedicated to advancing gender fairness, and making certain that everybody — no matter gender or gender identification — has the chance to succeed,” Baker mentioned.
“By means of programmes just like the Academy for Ladies Entrepreneurs, the TechGirls change initiative, and the Ladies in Power Students program, we’re equipping girls and ladies with the data, expertise, and alternatives they should thrive.”
The US diplomat additionally met members of the Pakistan-US Alumni Community, recognising the essential function that Pakistani alumni of US-funded change programmes play in constructing bridges between america and Pakistan and in utilizing the data they gained via their change programmes to profit their native communities.
Throughout her go to to the Walled Metropolis of Lahore, together with the enduring Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, DCM Baker spotlighted america’ funding in 35 cultural preservation initiatives throughout Pakistan, together with an ongoing, roughly $1 million funding to protect seven websites on the Lahore Fort.
“These initiatives are a testomony to the shared dedication between america and Pakistan to protect cultural heritage. They not solely strengthen neighborhood bonds but additionally help financial growth and encourage future generations to rejoice Pakistan’s wealthy historical past and variety,” mentioned DCM Baker.