US envoy visits AJK to ‘promote Pakistan-US partnership’

AJK premier raises issue of ongoing human rights violations in IIOJK with Donald Blome, urges US to play its role

ISLAMABAD:

The US ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome, paid an official trip to Azad Jammu and Kashmir for the first time since he landed in the capital Islamabad to take up his job.

In an official statement, the US Embassy said that Donald Blome’s visit to Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Oct. 2-4 was to “promote the US-Pakistan partnership and highlight the two countries’ deep economic, cultural, and people-to-people ties.”

During his stay in picturesque valley, he met with Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas and representatives from academia, business, cultural, and civil society organisations.

The U.S. Mission in Pakistan sends its deepest condolences to the family & colleagues of the Pakistani peacekeeper recently killed in the DRC. We condemn all attacks against peacekeepers & thank Pakistan for the 4,000 personnel it contributes to UN peacekeeping operations today.

— U.S. Embassy Islamabad (@usembislamabad) October 5, 2022

He also laid a wreath to honour the victims of the 2005 earthquake.

Read more: 'Symbol of cultural richness,' says Blome on visit to Quaid-e-Azam Dak Bungalow in AJK

“During the 75 years of our partnership, the United States has always stood by Pakistan, particularly when it’s needed most,” said the US ambassador.

“The new HeadStart School supported by @CareCloud will benefit 750 students and strengthen the quality of education in Bagh. I’m happy to join the inauguration of this school and witness the people-to-people ties between our countries in action.” -DB #AmbBlome 1/2 pic.twitter.com/A3AuCW6DaP

— U.S. Embassy Islamabad (@usembislamabad) October 5, 2022

"The United States is continuing this strong tradition of supporting Pakistan during times of great need, having thus far contributed more than $66 million in cash, food, shelter, and health assistance in response to the devastating flooding. The US support has included a US military airbridge that delivered lifesaving supplies to the people of Pakistan," said Blome.

Read Pakistan lures US investment

He also visited the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Quaid-e-Azam Memorial Dak Bungalow, the Red Fort, and the Jalalabad Garden – symbols of the cultural and historical richness of Pakistan.

AJK Premier Ilyas, during his meeting with the ambassador, raised the ongoing human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and urged the US to play its role and “stop India from human rights violations against the innocent Kashmiri people.”

Ilyas also presented a proposal to the US envoy for investment in tourism, education, culture and other sectors in Azad Kashmir, according to the AJK premier’s office.