US envoy highlights benefits of private sector-led growth

Visits women-led business, welcomes opportunity to explore prospects for economic reform

LAHORE:

In a meeting with the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Sialkot Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome emphasised the benefits of private sector-led, equitable, and sustainable economic growth, while also highlighting the potential for increasing bilateral trade and investment between the United States and Pakistan. According to a press statement released on Tuesday, the ambassador welcomed the opportunity to discuss Pakistan's investment and business climate and to explore prospects for economic reform.

"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 - a testament to the robust economic relationship we share," Blome said.

Reaffirming the US commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, Blome and US Consul General Kristin Hawkins also visited GharPar, a women-led business in Lahore that is redefining women's economic empowerment. The company participated in a US government-funded entrepreneurship training programme in 2016 and was part of the US Department of Commerce's 2024 SelectUSA delegation from Pakistan. According to the statement, GharPar plans to launch operations in the United States within the next year.

"The United States firmly believes that expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs leads to more stable societies. When women entrepreneurs succeed, their families and communities benefit," Blome stated.

The press release further reiterated the US commitment to promoting entrepreneurship both in Pakistan and globally, as a means to stimulate economic growth, create better quality jobs, and enhance global economic security and prosperity.