The new year started off on an uplifting note: U.S. Ambassador Donald A. Blome stopped by the USEFP office in Islamabad to commend our dedicated staff before he wrapped up his time in Pakistan. During the visit, Ambassador Blome acknowledged the organization’s contributions to fostering educational and cultural exchanges between the United States and Pakistan, engaged with team members, and participated in a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony, marking the commencement of USEFP’s 75th anniversary this year.
“As I wrap up my final days in this remarkable country, I wanted to stop by to personally thank each of you for all you have done to strengthen ties between Pakistan and the United States,” he said during his address. “USEFP is unlike any other Fulbright Commission in the world. Year after year, you expertly manage some of the State Department’s largest exchange programs, sending hundreds of students, academics, civil society leaders, and entrepreneurs to the United States to learn and grow. And it’s through these programs that Americans are able to engage with the best and brightest Pakistan has to offer.”
The ambassador also expressed his appreciation for the work done by EducationUSA Pakistan, recognizing its significant role as the official source of information on U.S. higher education, and commended the efforts of the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN) in engaging with alumni.
USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar conveyed sincere gratitude for Ambassador Blome’s support over the years. In her remarks, she underscored how USEFP has championed the Fulbright mission in Pakistan and highlighted the impact of alumni achievements across sectors.
“Celebrating all the great work USEFP has done over the years to change lives and build capacity in just about every economic and social sector in Pakistan is a dream come true – I am so grateful to the U.S. Embassy and the many public affairs section colleagues we’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years,” she said. “I’m especially grateful to Ambassador Blome for giving us so much of his precious time throughout his stay. It is wonderful that USEFP is being appreciated for contributing to mutual understanding and development.”
As a token of appreciation, Akhtar presented Ambassador Blome with a commemorative gift, recognizing his role as chief guest at various USEFP conferences and events.
