A delegation from Pakistan, currently on an exchange visit to the U.S. as part of Green Urban Development (GUD) initiative, yesterday visited the Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago, where they held an interaction with Consul General Tariq Karim.
The delegation included faculty members and students from Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad and COMSATS, journalists, and representatives of the Institute of Urbanism, School of Leadership Foundation, and Green Youth Movement. In addition, the leadership of DePaul University in Chicago including John Ziegler (Director Egan Office of UECP), Dr. Howard Rosing (Director of Steans Center) and Dr.GianMario Besana (Associate Provost of Global Engagement), also attended the event. The GUD initiative, supported by the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad in partnership with School of Leadership and Institute of Urbanism, aims to foster sustainable urban development through collaboration. The visit was coordinated by Ms. Hiba Zakai, PhD scholar and fellow at DePaul University’s Steans Centre.
Consul General Tariq Karim warmly welcomed the delegation, emphasizing the critical importance of Green Urban Development for Pakistan, a country particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. He stated that such visits play an important role in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening ties between the two countries.
During the interaction, the Consul General provided insights into the functioning of the Consulate, his priorities as Consul General, various aspects of the Pak-U.S. relations, Pakistan’s growing partnership with the Midwest region, and the vital role of the Pakistani-American community. The delegation engaged in discussion on ongoing projects, current youth initiatives, future collaborations between the two countries, opportunities for students, and strategies to enhance the Green Urban Development partnership for long-term success.
Consul General Tariq Karim also responded to various queries regarding the scope for bilateral collaboration in diverse fields, particularly in the areas of climate change mitigation and adaptation, water management, and academic connections. The interaction underscored the shared commitment to building strong partnerships and collaborating towards a sustainable future.
Chicago, IL
July 18, 2024
July 18, 2024
