Islamabad (TDI): US Ambassador Donald Blome praised the enduring partnership between the United States and Pakistan at the “Together We Build” infrastructure event, held recently in Islamabad.
The event, attended by senior officials including Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Planning, Development, and Reform, showcased the longstanding and multifaceted partnership aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s infrastructure and providing lasting benefits to its people.
Speaking at the event, Blome emphasized that for over 75 years, the US has supported Pakistan’s development through a variety of infrastructure projects, which have positively impacted millions of lives across the country.
“For more than 75 years, the US has partnered with the Government of Pakistan to implement an array of infrastructure development projects,” the envoy said.
“These efforts have ranged from the establishment of primary schools, universities, electric transmission lines, and water systems to the construction of roads and bridges, all of which have greatly improved the quality of life in communities across Pakistan.”
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Blome emphasized that US investments have been a key driver of development in Pakistan’s infrastructure sector, with a focus on sustainability and long-term impact.
Since 2005, the United States has invested nearly $2 billion in infrastructure projects across Pakistan, including high-profile projects such as the Tarbela and Mangla Dams, which were first constructed with US assistance in the 1960s and 1970s.
These dams have played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s water storage and electricity generation, and the US contributed to their modernization in 2013, ensuring that they continue to meet the needs of millions of Pakistanis.
The US has also cooperated with local governments to improve access to education and healthcare.
Ambassador Blome noted that over 60 health centers and hospitals have been rebuilt or refurbished with US support, including the establishment of a state-of-the-art burn and trauma center in Peshawar.
In education, US efforts have included the renovation of 345 primary, secondary, and high schools, as well as the establishment of top-tier higher education institutions like the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) and the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi.
Blome highlighted the philosophy behind the US approach to development, which differs from traditional loan-based assistance.
“Our development assistance is provided without loans,” Blome explained.
“Instead, we provide grants that enable local communities to benefit from modern infrastructure without the burden of debt payments. This is crucial in ensuring that infrastructure projects serve the local community and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the nation’s development.”
Another important aspect of Washington’s support is the focus on building local capacity and creating employment opportunities.
Blome emphasized that US projects prioritize skills development and job creation for local communities.
He explained that infrastructure initiatives, such as road construction, university campuses, and healthcare facilities, generate employment, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance local expertise, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and robust local economy.
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Looking ahead, Ambassador Blome underscored that the United States will continue to prioritize investments that support Pakistan’s economic growth and environmental sustainability.
US-Pakistan Partnership in Energy
He noted that the US has been a key partner in the development of hydropower and solar electrification projects, which will play a crucial role in Pakistan’s transition to renewable energy and climate-smart growth.
“Our partnerships in renewable energy, including hydropower and solar electrification, will be essential to meeting Pakistan’s energy needs and contributing to the country’s shift towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient future,” Blome said.
Additionally, the Ambassador pointed out the importance of infrastructure projects in facilitating trade and enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity to global markets. US investments in roads and transportation infrastructure have laid the foundation for enhanced trade opportunities, which will be critical as Pakistan seeks to bolster its position in global commerce.
Ambassador Blome concluded by reiterating the US commitment to its partnership with Pakistan.
He emphasized that this collaboration is grounded in shared values of mutual respect, progress, and long-term development.
“The US-Pakistan partnership is built on a foundation of trust and shared interests, and we are excited about continuing to work together to invest in Pakistan’s future,” Blome said.
“The United States looks forward to continuing to support Pakistan’s growth and development, ensuring that future generations benefit from these efforts.”
The event marked another milestone in the longstanding US-Pakistan relationship, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening ties in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and renewable energy, areas that are key to Pakistan’s sustainable development.
