In a recent engagement with members of the American Business Forum (ABF) in Lahore, U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome underscored the significant role that American companies are playing in driving economic growth and prosperity across Pakistan, particularly in Punjab province.
Ambassador Blome’s remarks highlighted the positive impact of U.S. businesses in fostering job creation, promoting women’s economic empowerment, and supporting local communities.
Ambassador Blome, joined by U.S. Consul General in Lahore Kristin Hawkins, engaged with business leaders at the ABF event, emphasizing the contributions of U.S. firms to Pakistan’s economy. “U.S. firms bring American values of openness, transparency, and community citizenship to the private sector here in Pakistan,” Blome said, noting that more than 80 U.S. companies in the country employ 120,000 Pakistanis, directly and indirectly, support the livelihoods of over one million more workers.
Empowering Women and Supporting Local Communities
The U.S. Ambassador’s engagement with Pakistani entrepreneurs and business representatives focused on initiatives that support women’s economic empowerment. U.S. companies, Blome pointed out, are actively involved in fostering economic opportunities for women in Pakistan, particularly through innovative programs that bring more women into the workforce. One notable example is the collaboration between the U.S. government and PepsiCo to increase women’s participation in Pakistan’s agricultural sector.
Blome also commended the companies for their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, which extend beyond profit-making to include vital contributions in sectors such as education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. He highlighted the Recharge Pakistan initiative, a partnership between Coca-Cola, the U.S. government, and the World Wildlife Fund aimed at improving water management and preventing floods in Pakistan.
Strengthening Bilateral Economic Ties
During his speech, Ambassador Blome emphasized that American companies are not only contributing to Pakistan’s economic development but also strengthening the bilateral relationship between the United States and Pakistan. “The United States is Pakistan’s largest export market globally, and Pakistan’s exports to the United States have more than doubled over the last decade,” Blome said, pointing to the growing economic ties between the two countries.
He further elaborated on the potential for increased trade and investment, expressing confidence that the robust partnership between the U.S. and Pakistan will continue to unlock new opportunities for both countries. The U.S. Mission to Pakistan, Blome affirmed, is committed to supporting American businesses and advocating for policy reforms that enhance the ease of doing business in Pakistan.
A Commitment to the Future
Blome concluded his remarks by reaffirming the United States’ dedication to supporting Pakistan’s economic growth. He emphasized that the U.S. Mission will continue to work on initiatives to develop skills among Pakistan’s youth, empowering them to contribute to the country’s economic future and further driving the growth of U.S. businesses in the region.
“Your companies bring the American values of openness, transparency, and responsible corporate citizenship to your communities. We will continue to work together to support women’s economic empowerment, foster entrepreneurship, and create a more prosperous future for both Pakistan and the United States,” Ambassador Blome stated.
The event underscored the ongoing commitment of American businesses in Pakistan, highlighting the tangible benefits these companies are bringing to the country’s economy while fostering sustainable and inclusive growth.