Sindh CM, US Officials Discuss Floods and Investment

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah met with US Charge d’Affaires Natalie Ashton Baker on Wednesday. The meeting included US Consul General Charles Goodman, Political Officer Jared Hansen, and Sindh officials. They discussed flood response, food security, energy, security cooperation, and investment opportunities in Sindh.

Murad Ali Shah emphasized the launch of the Keti Bunder Port Project. He called it a historic port and a vision of the late Benazir Bhutto. The CM highlighted the need for a new port to reduce Karachi Port congestion. He also spoke about linking Shahrah-e-Bhutto directly to Karachi Port to improve heavy traffic flow.

The US side assured support and said American company executives will visit Sindh soon. They are interested in investing in various projects. The talks also focused on energy and industrial growth, especially Thar coal-based projects such as coal-to-gas, coal-to-fertilizer, and coal-to-diesel.

Flood preparedness and relief were key topics. Sindh prepared for a super flood but was less affected than Punjab. Murad Ali Shah noted that repeated flood exposure helped Sindh’s readiness. However, rice crops in katcha areas suffered heavy damage.

Food security challenges were also discussed. The CM pointed out lower wheat production due to last year’s procurement crisis. He mentioned that imported wheat costs Rs 3,800 per maund. The talks ended with appreciation for US support in security, police training, and prison upgrades in Sindh.