May 3, 2024, Lahore U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome met with recently appointed Punjab officials in Lahore on May 1-3 in order to discuss ways to further the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and Pakistan in Punjab province. Additionally, he hosted gatherings and activities centered on IT, health, and cultural cooperation between the United States and Pakistan. Kristin Hawkins, the U.S. consul general in Lahore, accompanied Ambassador Blome on his round of meetings.
Ambassador Blome met with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Acting Governor and Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, and Punjab Assembly Leader of the Opposition Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar as part of his regular meetings with Pakistani officials. The ambassador talked about the benefits of the U.S.-Pakistan “Green Alliance” framework’s initiatives, emphasized the United States’ desire to deepen trade and investment ties with Pakistan, and looked into potential future areas of cooperation.
The Ambassador went to Systems Limited and Remington Pharmaceuticals’ offices to find out more about the ongoing IT and healthcare collaborations between the United States and Pakistan. “Nearly $85 million in funding—including $12 million for the treatment of severely malnourished children—is being provided by the U.S. government to address the issue of malnutrition in Pakistan,” stated Ambassador Blome. “I valued the chance to learn about Remington Pharmaceuticals’ efforts to address global health issues, such as malnutrition, and their partnerships with American companies.”
The ambassador went to Forman Christian College to see a women’s dormitory built by USAID and to see the EducationUSA office, which is funded by the US government and offers free counseling services on study abroad options in the US. Attending a concert by Raining Jane, a band made up of four American women, at the Lahore Fort was another highlight of his trip.
According to Ambassador Blome, “Raining Jane has established a Rock n’ Roll Camp for Girls in Los Angeles, back home in the United States, playing a leadership role in supporting girls’ dreams of becoming musicians.” “I’m thrilled they could be here to encourage the upcoming generation of Pakistani musicians, both male and female, to become significant figures in their own communities.”