Islamabad, 26 January 2023 (TDI): The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) signed four partnership memoranda of understanding (MoUs) to promote technology and digital investments in Pakistan.

The MoUs were signed between US-Pakistani diaspora entities during US-Pakistani Diaspora Engagement Conference in Islamabad. To advance Pakistan’s digital health ecosystem, USAID signed a Memorandum of Understanding with SARCMedIQ.

One MoU was signed with the Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs of North America, Silicon Valley to promote technology and digital investments in Pakistan and support Pakistani startups.

USAID also signed the Understandings with The Crescent Charity Foundation to support physical infrastructure in flood-affected areas of Pakistan, and PakFoods to improve humanitarian and social development outcomes for Pakistan.

Remarks by representatives

The US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Andrew Schofer attended the ceremony. He emphasized the valuable contributions of the US-Pakistani diaspora, which is a key partner in Pakistan’s humanitarian, and commercial sectors.

Schofer underscored the long-standing US-Pakistan partnership in advancing Pakistan’s economic growth, as well as future opportunities for collaboration.

“Just as the Green Revolution improved people’s lives in the past, a Green Alliance between the US and Pakistan will help us jointly strengthen climate resilience, develop clean energy alternatives, and promote economic growth.” The Deputy Chief reiterated.

Also read: USAID pledges support for Pakistan flood rehabilitation

USAID Mission Director, Reed Aeschliman also addressed the ceremony. He stated, “The conference is an opportunity to highlight some of the investments already made by the Pakistani diaspora.”

“It facilitates collaborations among Pakistani diaspora entities and creates a roadmap for collective action to address Pakistan’s current economic, humanitarian, and social challenges.” Aeschliman highlighted.

“The US remains steadfast in its commitment to engaging with the US-Pakistani diaspora to address Pakistan’s challenges & development goals.” The USAID Mission Director concluded.

Over 300 people attended the event, including members of the US-Pakistani diaspora and prominent local business leaders.

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce Naveed Qamar and Prime Minister’s Ambassador at Large for Investments Zeeshaan Shah also participated.