ISLAMABAD: United States Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome visited Azad Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday to promote the US-Pakistan partnership and highlight the two countries’ deep economic, cultural, and people-to-people ties.

During his visit, Ambassador Blome met with AJK Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas and academic, business, cultural, and civil society representatives.

In Muzaffarabad, the Ambassador laid a wreath to honor the victims of the 2005 earthquake and said that during the 75 years of our partnership, the United States has always stood by Pakistan, particularly when it’s needed most.

In his meetings, Ambassador Blome emphasized that the United States is continuing this strong tradition of supporting Pakistan during times of great need, having thus far contributed more than 66 million dollars in cash, food, shelter, and health assistance in response to the devastating flooding.

At the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Ambassador Blome visited the Lincoln Corner Muzaffarabad, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary.

The Ambassador also visited the Quaid-e-Azam Memorial Dak Bungalow, the Red Fort, and the Jalalabad Garden, symbols of the cultural and historical richness of Pakistan.

During his visit, the Ambassador also met with officers from the Pakistan Army 12th Infantry Division to discuss assistance activities for local communities.

In Bagh, Ambassador Blome joined representatives from U.S healthcare IT services company MTBC CareCloud to inaugurate the HeadStart School, which enrolls more than 750 students.

This purpose-built campus will strengthen the quality of education available to residents in Bagh and provide additional opportunities to the community.