U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, Natalie A. Baker completed a week-long visit to Sindh province from January 25 to 31, reinforcing the growing U.S.-Pakistan economic partnership and promoting cooperation in trade, industry, and regional stability.
During her visit, CDA Natalie A. Baker met political leaders, business executives, and community representatives to discuss shared priorities including economic growth, innovation, and institutional stability.
Her engagements highlighted the United States’ continued commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Pakistan.
As part of her tour, Baker visited the Continental Biscuits facility in Sukkur, a joint venture with U.S.-based Mondelez International.
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She described the project as a symbol of shared economic success, saying such partnerships create jobs, encourage innovation, and build mutual prosperity. She noted that American companies and technologies are helping Pakistani industries modernize operations, improve supply chains, and increase efficiency.
In Mirpurkhas, the U.S. envoy toured a sugar mill along with an ethanol, CO₂, and paper production plant. Officials said these facilities use modern technology and support exports to the United States and global supply chains.
Baker observed that innovative industrial operations strengthen the economic relationship by reducing waste, adding value, and connecting Pakistani production to international markets.
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Highlighting agriculture’s role in economic stability, she emphasized the importance of reliable agricultural inputs and the Indus River system in sustaining long-term growth and prosperity for both nations.
During her stay in Larkana, Baker visited the Bhutto family mausoleum in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, acknowledging its historical and cultural importance.
She also met Hindu community leaders to discuss interfaith harmony and religious freedom, underlining the U.S. commitment to protecting civil liberties and faith-based communities.
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In Hyderabad, Baker visited Niaz Stadium and spoke about cricket’s Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. She said sports strengthen people-to-people ties and create global opportunities. Hyderabad is also set to host a new Pakistan Super League team backed by a U.S.-based investor.
Meanwhile, U.S. Consulate Political and Economic Counselor Peter McSharry met Sukkur Mayor Arsalan Shaikh and Sindh Assembly Speaker Awais Qadir to discuss governance and fair commercial ties.
At Sukkur IBA University, he reviewed the U.S.-funded STEMpowered initiative with Vanderbilt University, aimed at boosting workforce readiness and innovation.
The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the United States’ long-term commitment to practical cooperation with Pakistan, focusing on economic development, institutional strength, and shared prosperity.
