US envoy explores ties in IT, health in Punjab

US Ambassador Donald Blome concluded a series of meetings with political and business leaders in Punjab aimed at fostering collaboration in the Information Technology (IT), health, and education sectors. During his three-day visit to the provincial capital from May 1 to 3, Ambassador Blome engaged in discussions with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz, Speaker Punjab Assembly (Acting Governor Punjab) Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan and Opposition Leader in Punjab Assembly Malik Ahmed Khan Bhachar. US Consul General to Lahore Kristin Hawkins accompanied him during these meetings. Ambassador Blome explored avenues to enhance the US-Pakistan partnership in Punjab, particularly focusing on areas of mutual interest such as IT, health, and culture. Emphasising the significance of initiatives within the US-Pakistan 'Green Alliance' framework, he highlighted the positive impact of ongoing collaborations. In addition to meetings, Ambassador Blome visited the offices of a technology firm and a pharmaceutical company to gain insights into existing US-Pakistan collaborations in the IT and health sectors. "The US government is allocating nearly $85 million to combat malnutrition in Pakistan, including 12 million dollars for the treatment of severely malnourished children," remarked Ambassador Blome. He commended the pharmaceutical company's efforts in addressing global health challenges and its collaboration with US-based partners. During his visit, the ambassador toured Forman Christian College to inspect a women's dormitory constructed with USAID funding and visited the US government-funded Education USA office, which offers free advising services on study abroad opportunities in the United States. Another highlight of his trip was attending a concert at the Lahore Fort featuring Raining Jane, an American all-female band. "Raining Jane has been instrumental in supporting girls' aspirations in music by establishing a Rock n' Roll Camp for Girls in Los Angeles," noted Ambassador Blome. He expressed hope that these American musicians would inspire the next generation of Pakistani musicians, both women and men, to become influential leaders in their communities. Published in The Express Tribune, May 4th, 2024.

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