US pledges $0.32m to Balochistan’s Mehrgarh Museum

KARACHI: US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome and Caretaker Chief Minister of Balochistan Ali Mardan Khan Domki launched the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), marking it the first-ever project in Balochistan.

The landmark initiative allocates over $320,000 for the preservation of Neolithic and other archaeological artifacts of the Mehrgarh civilization, as well as the enhancement of curation at the Mehrgarh Museum of Balochistan in Quetta.

In his remarks, Ambassador Blome said, “This endeavor underscores the importance the United States places on the cultural legacy of Balochistan and our commitment to fostering a deeper appreciation of its history.”

The United States has awarded more than $8 million for 33 cultural heritage projects across Pakistan, including in Sindh province the restoration of Varun Dev Temple, Frere Hall, the Nusserwanjee Building, and the tombs of Sultan Ibrahim and Amir Sultan Muhammad at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Makli Hill necropolis.

Established in September 2022, the Mehrgarh Museum of Balochistan displays the region’s pre and early history. Artifacts from Mehrgarh are globally recognized and displayed in museums including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Musée Guimet in Paris, highlighting Pakistan’s global archaeological significance.

The funding from the US grant will enhance the museum’s existing displays, strengthen community outreach skills and provide professional development trainings for the Balochistan Directorate of Archaeology’s staff.

This AFCP project, which is implemented in partnership with the Balochistan Culture Department and SEAS, will support efforts to preserve the cultural landscape of the region.