Bold claim: The latest meeting between a regional chief minister and a major international representative underscores a shared drive toward progress, challenging the notion that diplomacy and development exist in separate realms.
Peshawar, KP: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mohammad Sohail Afridi welcomed US Consul General Thomas Eckert at the Chief Minister’s House. The officials exchanged perspectives on ways to deepen collaboration for mutual development and shared prosperity.
Afridi reiterated that public welfare remains the guiding principle behind every decision of the provincial government. Reflecting on the post-9/11 era, he stressed that KP bore the greatest impact of the war on terrorism and is now prioritizing improvements in infrastructure, institutional capacity, and governance capabilities. He also noted active progress on small hydropower projects and dam construction aimed at delivering affordable, clean energy to both households and businesses.
The US Consul General emphasized that commercial diplomacy is a central pillar of American foreign policy and that economic engagement is a key driver of peace and global stability.
Both sides agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation spanning security, development, and mutual prosperity, signaling a forward-looking partnership.
Published in Dawn, December 3, 2025
