US diplomat, secretary discuss cooperation on human rights

ISLAMABAD: US Deputy Assistant Secretary Monica Jacobsen met with Human Rights Secretary Allah Dino Khowajay. During the meeting, Ms Jacobsen emphasised the crucial role that human rights, support for a vibrant civil society, and strong democratic institutions play in the comprehensive US-Pakistan relationship, and explored ways to advance bilateral cooperation in these areas, according to a statement issued by the US Embassy here on Wednesday.

The human rights ministry also issued a statement, insisting that the discussion focused on key human rights initiatives, including legislative advancements and institutional support in Pakistan. Ms Jacobsen reaffirmed the US State Department’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s efforts to promote and protect human rights.

Meanwhile, Minister Counselor for Public Diplomacy at the US Embassy Lisa Swenarski celebrated the achievements of 40 talented girls at the RoboGen Capstone event at Lincoln Corner in the National University of Sciences and Technology here. Over four months, these innovators gained hands-on STEM skills, driving gender equality in tech, according to her. She said the US Embassy was committed to empowering young girls to pursue careers in STEM. “Celebrating the remarkable achievements of this talented cohort of young women, RoboGen has empowered 80 high school girls to explore the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, and math. The US Embassy is very committed to encouraging young women like you to pursue STEM fields,” she said. Ms Swenarski said STEM programmes taught kids creativity, problem-solving, and outside-the-box thinking and it stays with them their entire lives. “This is a very wonderful experience. I gained a lot of knowledge about this STEM project. I also tried a lot of things like our teamwork and our calibration. I liked it. These girls are going to change the world,” she said.