Latest news with #ScottUrbom
Express Tribune
7 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
US investors eye Pakistan's port sector
Listen to article Over 65 US companies joined a webinar hosted by the US Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration and the US Department of State, in collaboration with Pakistan's Ministry of Maritime Affairs, to explore commercial opportunities at Karachi Port and Port Qasim. The session, part of the "Gateways to Growth: South Asia Port Opportunities" series, served as a strategic platform for American companies to engage directly with Pakistani port officials and private operators. Senior representatives from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs; Port Qasim Authority; Abu Dhabi Ports, which operates Karachi Gateway Terminal Ltd; and Dubai Ports World, which operates Qasim International Container Terminal outlined Pakistan's infrastructure goals, regulatory landscape and trade priorities. "US investors have made substantial contributions to Pakistan's development and we are confident that the port sector will be another area where we can achieve great success together," said US Consul General Scott Urbom, while emphasising the role of partnership in fostering long-term commercial ties. "We believe that by working together, we can unlock the full potential of Pakistan's port sector, create new opportunities for American businesses and contribute to Pakistan's economic development," he said. The hybrid session highlighted how American firms could support Pakistan's port development plans, help expedite trade flows and build new supply chain linkages between the two countries. US International Development Finance Corporation's Director of ICT and Infrastructure Policy Ean Hundley noted, "This initiative equips US companies with market intelligence and direct access to local decision-makers, enabling them to capitalise on infrastructure opportunities across South Asia."
Express Tribune
30-06-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
US CG Urbom all for empowering squash players
US Consul General in Karachi Scott Urbom has said that there is no dearth of talent in Pakistan, it is hoped that a great player like Jahangir Khan will be born again. He was present at the prize distribution ceremony of the National Junior and Women's Squash Championship as the Chief Guest and spoke to the media at the occassion. The event was organized by the Sindh Squash Association at the PSF Jahangir Khan Squash Complex in collaboration with the Pakistan American Business Council. Urbom added that it is an honour for the United States to host the 2028 Olympics and see the return of cricket to the Olympics after 138 years. He also is welcomed the induction of squash in the games program and expressed joy that squash will be promoted by its inclusion in the Olympics. He emphasised on the role of sports in empowering women. "There is no dearth of talented and qualified men and women in Pakistan, it is welcome to organize squash competitions to encourage emerging players with the support of the Pakistan American Business Council, squash legend Jahangir Khan made history by accomplishing great feats.," the US Consul General said. "It is an honor for the United States to host the Los Angeles Olympics 2028. It is a matter of pride that after the Paris Olympics 1900, cricket has now been included in the next Olympics. Making squash a part of the Olympic competitions will promote this sport. Sports play an important role in women's empowerment. My daughters also expressed their abilities and talents by playing football, wrestling and rugby. It is hoped that the process of development in squash in Pakistan will continue. Pakistan is gradually trying to regain its lost position in squash. The World Under-23 Squash Championship held in Karachi was also a link in this series." Squash legend Jahangir Khan also expressed his views, "I try to guide emerging players in the best way he could. The Sindh Squash Association is also organizing quality competitions. Its academies provide good and best facilities to the players. The training is ongoing, the players should also take advantage of these facilities and work hard for good results. The sponsorship of institutions like McDonald's for the promotion of sports, especially squash, is a commendable act." On the other hand, Sindh Squash Association President Asad Adnan said that with the support of the American Business Council and the Sindh government is providing free education and training at the academy. "Good results have started to emerge. McDonald's is providing full support and assistance as the main sponsor. After Karachi, steps will be taken to promote squash in Hyderabad and Sukkur," he added. Similarly, former national champion Sadia Gul, who made her name in the women's event, said that she is very happy to step on the squash court after four years and win the title. In the future, she will try to make Pakistan famous by participating in national and international events. McDonald's COO Jamil Mughal said that they will continue to play their national role in the promotion of sports and other positive activities.
Business Recorder
28-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
US CG visits Pakistan-based US company in Hub
KARACHI: The US Consul General in Karachi Scott Urbom recently visited the Pakistan based American company, Mondelēz, located in Hub, Balochistan. The company, headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, set up a plant in Pakistan in 1993. More than 80 US companies directly employ 120,000 Pakistanis and indirectly support the livelihoods of over a million Pakistani workers, showcasing the significant impact of American businesses in the region. During the visit, the Consul General toured the plants, where Mondelēz produces chocolate, candy, and powdered beverages. Mondelēz International's largest-selling brands in Pakistan include Cadbury Dairy Milk, Tang, and Cadbury Eclairs. Mondelez employs over 1100 Pakistanis nationwide and operates two manufacturing facilities in Hub, Balochistan, with a distribution network that spans the entire country. The visit highlighted Mondelēz Pakistan's commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. In 2024, the company organized Iftar event for underprivileged children during Ramazan, demonstrating their dedication to community support. Additionally, Mondelēz Pakistan has partnered with Shams Power to solarize its Tang plant, generating clean and affordable energy. In 2024, the company celebrated various cultural events, including Mother's Day, Eid, and Diwali, emphasizing their respect for the rich cultural tapestry of Pakistan. The Consul General's underscored, 'American businesses have a long history of investing in Pakistan, creating jobs, strengthening local industries, and building long-term economic ties. The United States remains committed to supporting economic growth in Pakistan through private sector partnerships that benefit both our countries.' The US Government has worked with various American companies in Pakistan to drive investment, entrepreneurship and job creation. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
08-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
KLF opens with cultural discourse
KARACHI: The Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) 2025 themed Narratives of the Soil opened today with a vibrant inauguration ceremony, marking the beginning of a weekend dedicated to literary excellence, thought-provoking discussions, and cultural enrichment. Book lovers, literati and people from all walks of life enjoyed the cool breeze on the Beach Luxury Hotel's lawns browsing through the stalls of publishers offering books on lucrative discounts. Organized by Oxford University Press Pakistan (OUPP), this 3-day Festival is proudly supported by the Government of Sindh as the title sponsor, with Habib Bank Limited and Getz Pharma as Platinum and Gold Sponsors, respectively. Saeed Ghani, Local Government Minister, addressed the audience, highlighting the value of culture in social development, "Sindh has one of the most iconic historic legacies in the world, and it is but our mutual responsibility to enable this land to be visible globally for its magnificent legacy and literary richness." In his welcome speech, Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director, OUP Pakistan, said, "Oxford University Press Pakistan continues its drive for not just promoting the beautiful culture of reading and discussions, but bringing to light the power packed 'Narratives from the Soil' to truly distinguish the enriching legacies that geographies have to share." Bringing together renowned writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts from across Pakistan and beyond, KLF 2025 reaffirms its status as a premier event in the country's cultural and intellectual landscape. Distinguished guests, including HE Nicolas Galey, Ambassador of France; Scott Urbom, Consul General United States Consulate; Alexis Chahtahtinsky, Counsel General France; and Martin Dawson, Deputy Head of Mission, British Deputy High Commission; shared their remarks, emphasizing the significance of literary initiatives. The keynote speech, delivered by FS Aijazuddin and Asghar Nadeem Syed, set the tone for the festival, celebrating the power of literature in shaping societies. Scott Urbom, Consul General United States Consulate, remarked, "I am proud to say that the U.S. Consulate General has supported this festival from day one, and we are honored to partner again. This partnership aligns with our shared values of a safer, more prosperous, more secure future, where the free exchange of ideas is celebrated." Ali Habib, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, HBL, shared his organisation's pride in being a partner in an event that is now legacy-worthy, "We hope to see the power of word truly translate into a happier tomorrow for all concerned." Art-historian and author FS Aijazuddin OBE spoke on the essential message that soil reserves for its children, "It is but imperative to hear the stories for the truest transformation. Pakistan's history and narratives are so powerful, and I am happy to see them flowing on such a worthy platform."
