Reflective Session on Gender-Based Violence Reduction Dr. Jassim Taqui DG, Al-Bab Institute for Strategic Studies Islamabad August 31, 2023, AMBASSADOR BLOME: It’s wonderful to be here today for this important event we’re convening to discuss how communities and especially religious leaders, as well, can work with the justice system to help prevent and address gender-based violence. This is an issue that’s very important to the United States.  This event is an indication of the partnership we’ve established with our Pakistani partners to try to work to address this very difficult issue.  We’ve done several things together that I would like to highlight. We’ve worked to improve the law enforcement response to gender-based violence, including by training victim support officers. We’ve worked to establish networks of pro-bono lawyers to provide legal services to survivors of gender-based violence. And we’ve established women’s desks at police stations to provide access to criminal justice for women who are victims of this type of violence. I appreciate being here today to hear from our partners about what more we can do to ensure that legal protections for women and girls are in place. And I would just point out the courageous folks, many of whom are in this room, who work on these issues every day. They are the ones on the front lines who are making it happen, so much appreciation to all of them. Thank you very much

Breaking Barriers Through Diversity and Inclusivity Conference Makes Strides for Gender-Inclusive Solutions Islamabad – Pakistani and international participants today concluded a four-day conference dedicated to driving gender-inclusive solutions to the world's most pressing challenges, including climate resilience, entrepreneurship, and sustainable water management. This groundbreaking event, organized by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in partnership with the National Rural Support Program (NRSP), was a beacon of innovation and inclusivity in alignment with this year's International Women's Day campaign theme, 'Inspire Inclusion.' Under the banner of USAID, the conference – hosted by NRSP, led by the All Pakistan Women Universities Consortium (APWUC), and composed of 18 women's universities from Pakistan – brought together approximately 250 participants. This diverse assembly included representatives from U.S. Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), high-level Pakistani government officials, international donors, private sector entities, and civic organizations. The conference aimed to resolve local development challenges by applying localized research and approaches, aligning with the “Green Alliance” framework. At the closing ceremony, U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Andrew Schofer said, "May our shared commitment to 'Inspire Inclusion' propel us toward a future where the contributions of each individual, community, and partner are duly recognized and celebrated." Throughout the event, a series of keynote speeches, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities allowed participants to share insights, forge partnerships, and contribute to a collective effort aimed at creating a more sustainable and inclusive future. As the world faces complex challenges, this event is a testament to the power of partnership and inclusivity, paving the way for transformative solutions. This conference marks a pivotal moment in the global commitment to fostering international collaborations and promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). Through initiatives like this conference, USAID continues to lead in creating a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Remarks by DCM Andrew Schofer at the International Conference on Combating Trafficking and Bonded Labor of Women and Girls in Pakistan Serena Hotel Islamabad DEPUTY CHIEF OF MISSION SCHOFER: I would like to thank our partners at the Sustainable Social Development Organization and the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network for bringing together like-minded individuals to discuss strategies to combat trafficking in persons in Pakistan. The challenging reality of human trafficking is that criminals exploit many systems of communication, finance, transportation, and commerce – all of which were originally designed for the collective public good. Traffickers, however, constantly evolve their networks to take advantage of emerging technologies and migratory trends. They use the same tools that are essential to connecting and enriching our global community for their transnational criminal activities. This is precisely why tackling a global problem like human trafficking requires a global coalition – one that transcends borders and industries. Getting ahead of the traffickers requires us – governments, civil society, front-line workers, and the private sector – to forge meaningful partnerships and harness advanced tools to effectively counter these criminal entities. By leveraging technology, we can better address the nexus between finance and human trafficking and better detect online exploitation. By sharing information and resources, we can better equip front-line stakeholders to track and respond to evolving trafficking trends. By improving investigations and prosecutions of trafficking cases, we can bring more perpetrators of these crimes to justice. And by partnering with survivors, we can better establish trauma-informed anti-trafficking policies and strategies. Together, these efforts can help us bring an end to human trafficking. The U.S. Embassy is committed to supporting Pakistan’s efforts in addressing this critical human rights issue. While we welcome the progress made in the fight against human trafficking, there is more work to be done. Together, we will Insha-Allah continue to improve and adapt our efforts to combat these criminal entities, and build stronger partnerships with the Pakistani government, businesses, survivor leaders, and NGOs. Through these collaborative efforts, we will make human trafficking a relic of the past.

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Blome at the International Conference on Combating Trafficking and Bonded Labor of Women and Girls in Pakistan Serena Hotel Islamabad AMBASSADOR BLOME: It is a real honor to inaugurate this important conference and I am particularly pleased by the involvement of PUAN (Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network). I find members of our alumni network almost everywhere I go in Pakistan and doing all kinds of important work. And I am always proud when I see it. Human trafficking is an appalling and pervasive crime. It deprives millions worldwide of their dignity and freedom. It is a global crisis that touches every country, including Pakistan and the United States. By its nature, the crime of human trafficking is often hidden from view. While the real numbers are hard to confirm, an estimated 27.6 million people around the world are victims of human trafficking, including millions of women and children. Beyond the harm to individual victims, trafficking-in-persons also undermines national security, distorts markets, enriches transnational criminals and terrorists, and is an affront to our universal values. These statistics are alarming – but we need to go beyond the numbers and humanize this danger by understanding the experiences of survivors and engaging with those who are actively fighting against this transnational crime. We will hear today from Ansa Noreen – one of the two American experts joining us today – herself a trafficking survivor. Her story could have ended in tragedy. However, through the coordinated efforts of stakeholders like you, she was eventually freed, and she stands before you today as a tireless advocate for trafficking victims. We are also going to hear from Joseph Salavarria, a retired Special Agent from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He has more than 20 years of criminal investigative experience focused on human trafficking and human smuggling. Mr. Salavarria will share his expertise on the efficacy and necessity of stakeholder collaboration in addressing this transnational crime. In the United States, we follow the widely used “3P” paradigm — prosecution, protection, and prevention – and I am glad to see that it is universalized here as well — to combat human trafficking worldwide. In addition, the Department of State employs a “4th P” — for partnership — as a complementary means to achieve progress and enlist all segments of society in the fight against human trafficking. The U.S. Embassy’s ongoing grant program with the Sustainable Social Development Organization is a testament to the effectiveness of meaningful partnerships between civil society and the public sector, demonstrating how we can expand awareness, leverage expertise, and facilitate creative solutions when we work together. The toll of human trafficking is borne disproportionately by its survivors; however, it would be a mistake to dismiss the impact it has on all of society. Human trafficking erodes the rule of law, the safety of our communities, the security of our borders, and the strength of our economy. The severity and pervasiveness of this issue demands our collective action. Working together — across government, business, and civil society — is essential in our joint effort to create a fairer and more equitable world. We are making progress, but there is still a lot of work remaining to do. Through this conference, I hope to see partnerships develop and opportunities for further collaboration explored. Together, we can increase awareness of the risks and consequences of human trafficking, strengthen Pakistan’s capacity to identify and investigate trafficking crimes, and share best practices in assisting and protecting survivors. The U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Government is committed to supporting Pakistan’s efforts in addressing this critical human rights issue. So thank you everyone for being here today. Shukria!

Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Blome at the Breaking Barriers Through Diversity and Inclusivity Conference Marriott Hotel Islamabad AMBASSADOR BLOME: It is a great pleasure to join you this morning at the Breaking Barriers Through Diversity and Inclusivity Conference. It’s wonderful to see representatives from the fourteen U.S. minority-serving institutions and the All-Pakistan Women Universities Consortium. Diversity is the cornerstone of progress and innovation. President Biden has underscored that in America “Diversity is our strength, the promise of America is that it is big enough for everyone to succeed.” In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, our ability to embrace and celebrate our differences is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity. It is through diversity that we gain access to a multitude of perspectives, ideas, and talents, propelling us forward into a brighter and more inclusive future. Today, we celebrate diversity in all its forms. Regional. Cultural. Linguistic. Ethnic. Age. Religious belief. Gender, and others. In particular, we focus on the essential role of women in society and the importance of advancing women’s inclusion. I would like to extend gratitude to the many partners here today who are driving us toward a more inclusive world. The empowerment of women is not just an issue of gender; it is a human rights issue and an economic imperative. The evidence is clear – societies that invest in and empower women reap the rewards of improved education, health, and economic outcomes. When women are given equal opportunities, communities thrive, economies prosper, and nations progress. Women’s inclusion is crucial not just for economic benefits but also for societal progress. Women play a crucial role in promoting peace and stability. Studies have shown that when women are involved in peace processes, the resulting agreements are more durable and sustainable. Their unique perspectives and experiences bring a different dimension to conflict resolution, fostering inclusivity and long-lasting solutions. The United States is committed to supporting Pakistan in its efforts to advance diversity in all its forms. We will continue to collaborate on initiatives that promote diversity, including programs focused on education, healthcare, and economic development. Through partnerships between our governments, civil society, and the private sector, we can create lasting change that benefits us all. This conference marks a significant stride in aligning with the United States’ commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion and our joint development objectives. It serves as a platform to elevate local research, specifically focusing on inclusive approaches to climate resilience and advancing women's empowerment and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, it reinforces our commitment to collaborate with Pakistan on climate smart agriculture, clean energy, and water--all fundamental to the U.S.-Pakistan "Green Alliance" framework. Today, as we grapple with climate change and disaster management, we acknowledge the indispensable role of everyone present, especially women and academia, in crafting solutions the many challenges we face. Given the unequal impacts of climate change, the unique contributions from Pakistani women universities offer promising insights into challenges and opportunities. To our distinguished guests from American universities, thank you for traveling all this way and for your leadership in sharing your expertise with our partners in Pakistani universities. I eagerly anticipate the conference outcomes and the potential breakthroughs arising from your collaborative efforts. Let's turn these discussions into actions that accelerate meaningful change. In closing, I commend everyone involved in this effort to create a more inclusive society. Your commitment and engagement are invaluable to our collective pursuit of diversity and inclusion. Together, we can strive to expand these efforts to create a future where everyone is included in solving the challenges we face. It is my hope that initiatives like this will be transformative and enlightening. Thank you, and I wish you all a highly productive and impactful conference ahead.

U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Andrew Schofer Bolsters U.S.-Pakistan Ties During Visit to Karachi

Karachi – The Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) of the United States Mission in Pakistan Andrew Schofer reinforced U.S. efforts to promote democracy, economic growth, and women's economic empowerment, and to further strengthen ties with the people of Pakistan during his visit to Karachi February 13-16. "We are committed to deepening our partnership with Pakistan and working together on our shared priorities that promote democracy, inclusive economic growth, and stability in the region. This visit to Karachi is the reflection of our commitment to our continued engagement with diverse stakeholders and reinforcing our bilateral ties," said DCM Schofer. DCM Schofer stated the United States demonstrated its support for the people of Sindh during the time of climate disaster and post floods recovery efforts by extending over $215 million in support for Sindh since 2022. With a focus on education, clean water, malnutrition, and healthcare, the United States has been actively engaged in supporting the people of Sindh in their efforts to recover from the floods and build disaster resilience. Underscoring the U.S. commitment to promote women’s entrepreneurship, DCM Schofer visited the USAID-supported Terry Tex International company in Karachi, an example of how USAID's support can empower local businesses to expand their horizons. Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) Schofer's visit to the Lincoln Corner at the Pakistan American Cultural Center brought together dynamic youth leaders, providing them with a unique platform for discussion. During his visit, DCM Schofer seized the opportunity to meet with private sector and civil society leaders across various sectors, including finance, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. These dialogues reinforced the importance of inclusive private sector-led growth, trade, and investment between Pakistan and the United States. DCM Schofer's visit also underscored the United States' commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Afghan refugees and vulnerable religious minorities in Pakistan. During his trip to Karachi, Deputy Chief of Mission Andrew Schofer met UNHCR officials and discussed pressing issues facing Afghan refugees, showcasing a commitment to humanitarian aid and support. The DCM's meeting with religious minorities was marked by a special interaction with the Parsi community in Karachi. This event served as a valuable opportunity for DCM Schofer to gain a deeper understanding of Karachi's diverse religious and cultural fabric, fostering greater harmony and appreciation among its inhabitants.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY MATTHEW MILLER, SPOKESPERSON

February 9, 2024 Elections in Pakistan Millions of Pakistanis made their voices heard by voting in Pakistan’s elections on February 8, with record numbers of Pakistani women, members of religious and ethnic minority groups, and youth registered. We commend Pakistani poll workers, civil society, journalists and election observers for their work to protect and uphold Pakistan’s democratic and electoral institutions. We now look forward to timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people. We join credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. We condemn electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, and are concerned about allegations of interference in the electoral process. Claims of interference or fraud should be fully investigated. The United States is prepared to work with the next Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests. We look forward to bolstering our partnership by supporting Pakistan’s economy through trade and investment. We will continue to support Pakistan strengthening its democratic institutions, engage through the U.S.-Pakistan Green Alliance Framework, broaden people-to-people ties, and promote human rights including freedom of expression. We are also committed to strengthening our security cooperation and creating an environment of safety and security that affords the Pakistani people the peace, democracy, and progress they deserve.

German Financial assistance to Pakistan in 2023

German Development Bank Boosts Support for Pakistan’s Power Transmission and Health Sectors Islamabad, December 4, 2023 – Today, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and KfW, the German Development Bank, solidified their partnership with the signing of agreements aimed at enhancing the capacity of Pakistan’s power transmission sector and supporting the health sector, particularly in areas affected by floods. In a ceremony held in Islamabad, Mr. Sebastian Jacobi, Country Director of KfW and Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs inked agreements that signify Germany’s commitment to furthering the development goals of Pakistan. Managing Director NTDC, Engr. Dr. Rana Abdul Jabbar Khan was also present on the occasion. Under the Accompanying Measures support to the “Promotion of Renewable Energies and Energy Efficiency” program, KfW, representing the German Government, will provide an additional grant of Euro 2.5 million to the National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC). This funding will assist NTDC in ensuring the effective operation and maintenance of installations, incorporating robust environmental and social management systems. The initiative is poised to enhance the integration of needs-based renewable energy into the transmission system, thereby contributing to sustainable economic growth and climate protection. In another significant move, KfW will allocate an additional Euro 1.5 million to the “Self-Employment of Women in the Private Health Sector” program. This initiative aims to empower women economically by establishing 400 clinics in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, creating income-generating opportunities. The support is designed to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth while concurrently improving reproductive health services in rural areas. Expressing gratitude, Mr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, acknowledged the German Government’s steadfast support and commended KfW for its pivotal role in fostering economic growth and sustainable development in Pakistan. In response, Mr. Sebastian Jacobi emphasized that KfW’s funding in the energy and governance sectors will not only drive sectoral improvements but also contribute to the socio-economic uplift of beneficiaries through job creation and infrastructure development. Highlighting the longstanding economic cooperation between Germany and Pakistan, dating back over 60 years, Mr. Jacobi noted that Germany has consistently supported Pakistan in infrastructure development and improving social conditions. The latest agreements reaffirm Germany’s commitment to being a reliable partner in Pakistan’s journey towards progress and prosperity. Find Us

Germany provides EUR 45 million support to Pakistan Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary for Economic Affairs Pakistan, and Mr. Alfred Grannas, German Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, witnessed the ceremony for signing of Euro 45 million agreements on Technical Development Cooperation for starting new bilateral cooperation projects. These new agreements are the result of a longstanding and trustful partnership between the two countries. Technical Cooperation Agreement The newly commissioned projects align with the German development cooperation thematic areas of Climate and energy, just transition; Sustainable economic development, training and employment; Health, social protection and population policy. All ongoing and new projects work hand in hand with a holistic approach building synergies for well-rounded solutions to effectively tackle complex and global challenges like climate change and inclusion of vulnerable groups such as women and youth. Both parties highlighted the immense efforts taken in the past decades. The impact of the German development cooperation is proof for a successful cooperation targeting the development sectors in need. Germany stands Shana ba shana with Pakistan. Ambassador Alfred Grannas: “The German-Pakistani development cooperation has left its footprints in the country. With the agreement we signed today, we aim to continue our joint path towards a sustainable future in Pakistan. Recently Svenja Schulze, our German Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, said ‘international cooperation doesn’t just help others. Above all, it helps us, because global problems can only be solved together’. Secretary Dr. Kazim Niaz: “We deeply appreciate the strong support that we have received on technical development cooperation. It would contribute to plugging some gaps in contributing to the Socio-economic development of the country”. About German development cooperation The German development cooperation has been supporting Pakistani Government initiatives for over 60 years. We work together with our partners in support of their socio-economic reform agenda contributing to a sustainable, crisis-proof development. Therefore, the cooperation focuses on the core areas of ‘Climate and energy, just transition’, ‘Sustainable economic development, training and employment’, and ‘Health, social protection and population policy’. Our work contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and are implemented in line with the Pakistan-German cooperation agreements.