Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) of the United States Mission in Pakistan, Andrew Schofer, emphasized the robust US-Pakistan partnership and the US commitment to enhancing maritime security, supporting religious freedom, and preserving cultural heritage during his visit from June 12 to 14.
CDA Schofer paid homage to Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, at Mazar-e-Quaid. This visit symbolized the longstanding relations between the United States and Pakistan, reflecting Jinnah’s vision for a unified, democratic Pakistan characterized by equality, social justice, and economic opportunity. Schofer noted that both nations value these principles and continue to collaborate across various domains.
A key event during CDA Schofer’s visit was the launch of the $1 million Global Maritime Crime Program (GMCP) Phase-2. Funded by the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and led by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), this initiative aims to enhance maritime security and combat transnational maritime crime in Pakistan. The program also focuses on developing technologies to improve Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) for better monitoring and management of maritime activities.
In Karachi, CDA Schofer visited the shrine of Sufi saint Manghopir, honoring Pakistan’s rich cultural and religious diversity. He participated in the traditional ritual of feeding crocodiles at the adjoining ponds, a significant cultural and spiritual practice for the local community. This visit underscored the US priority of promoting religious tolerance and support for Karachi’s Sheedi community. Schofer stated, “Freedom of religion is a fundamental human right essential for global stability and security.”
Schofer also met with individuals from the transgender community to discuss their experiences, challenges, and efforts to improve social and economic inclusion in Pakistan. This meeting aligns with the US goal of promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA).
CDA Schofer’s visit to Makli Necropolis, one of the world’s largest and oldest funerary sites, demonstrated the US commitment to preserving Pakistan’s cultural heritage. Through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), the US has supported over 32 projects in Pakistan since 2001, investing $7.6 million to restore sites like the Varun Dev Temple, Frere Hall, and the tombs of Sultan Ibrahim and Amir Sultan Muhammad at Makli Necropolis, among others.
Additionally, CDA Schofer visited Aisha Islamic Academy, a madrassah affiliated with Jamia Islamia Clifton’s madrassah for boys, which educates 300 girls, including over 100 orphans. This marked the first official US delegation visit to the girls’ madrassah, highlighting the US government’s dedication to inclusive education and women’s empowerment.
CDA Schofer’s visit to Karachi reflects the broader US approach to strengthening its partnership with Pakistan by promoting climate resilience, human rights, maritime security, women’s empowerment, religious tolerance, and cultural heritage preservation, thereby supporting sustainable development and deepening bilateral ties.
