Karachi, the US Deputy Chief of Mission Andrew Schofer met with Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab to discuss mutual interests, including the ongoing development and progress in Karachi. The meeting, which highlighted various urban challenges and potential areas for international cooperation, was attended by significant figures from both the United States and Karachi’s political and administrative spheres.

According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, the US delegation included US Consul General in Karachi Conrad Tribble, Political Officer Weldon Montgomery, and Political Specialist Saleh Shah. Representing Karachi alongside Mayor Wahab were his Spokesperson for Political Affairs Karamullah Waqasi, Deputy Parliamentary Leader in the city council Dil Muhammad, Juman Darwan, and Muhammad Hanif Chattani.

Mayor Wahab briefed the delegation on the outcomes of the recent general elections, detailing the Pakistan People’s Party’s significant victories across Sindh and its leadership roles in numerous towns of Karachi. He underscored Karachi’s critical challenges, such as water and sewage issues, transportation, infrastructure, and the need for public spaces and parks. The Mayor emphasized the lack of coordination between the federal and Sindh governments during the PTI administration and highlighted Karachi’s central role in Pakistan’s economy.

He proposed the creation of specific Information Technology zones in Karachi, noting the availability of sufficient space for international companies to invest heavily in the I.T. sector. Additionally, Mayor Wahab addressed the city’s antiquated drainage system, the emergency measures required to manage monsoon rainwater, and efforts to maintain normalcy during the monsoon season through improved strategies.

The Mayor also shared the city’s achievements, including the construction of the first solar park at Kidney Hill, which will contribute 100 kilowatts of electricity, and the ongoing plans to enhance urban forestry and recreational facilities through significant tree planting initiatives and the proposed installation of a chairlift between Kidney Hill and Hill Park, a project originally envisioned by former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

The meeting reflects a keen interest from both the United States and Karachi in fostering dialogue and collaboration on urban development, technological investment, and improving the city’s infrastructure and environmental resilience.