'US consulate in Karachi to issue visas from March': CG visits Sindh University

The consul general of United States, William Martin has said that the consulate in Karachi has been made functional and visa service will begin from next month. He was addressing the students of mass communication, international relations and political science departments of Sindh University at the senate hall on Thursday morning.
The CG said that there are a lot of opportunities and scholarships in US varsities for higher education including full-bright scholarships. He said this is his first trip to Hyderabad and he is happy to meet the students. He further said that US government has been emphasising people to people interaction for understanding.
Martin, who has served in Colombia, Indonesia and China before joining his assignment in Pakistan, said that US government has announced scholarship and invited professors and students to avail this offer. He added that in the US, there are excellent varsities, experts in education system and varsity scholarships.
He said that to facilitate people of Sindh, consulate in Karachi has been made functional and visa service would begin from next month, adding that it is a very large facility. He also said that Pakistan and United States are victims of terrorism and they have to work together, saying people in the US are very open and welcoming.
Responding to a question about the facility of technology for development of Pakistan, the CG said that technology is very expensive. To another question, he said that foreign investment could not be neglected for the development of Pakistan, but investors expect protection. He was of the view that there is a big market, including education, for foreign investors in the country.
Earlier, the CG, accompanied by Political Officer, Mary Vargas and Information Officer, Andie De Arment, before the address, held meeting with Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr Nazir A. Mughal in his office. He remained there for half an hour and discussed about academic opportunities of higher education for the youths of Pakistan.
The VC said that SU is the oldest varsity of Pakistan offering bachelors, master degree programmes in 54 disciplines at the undergraduate, postgraduate and Ph.D levels. He also said that majority of scholars go to the varsities of England for higher education.
He also briefed the CG about his reforms and sending 1,200 Pakistani graduates for higher education to US as well as strengthening academic linkages with US varsities. Martin appreciated the VC for his efforts. On the occasion, Professor Dr Mughal presented traditional gift Lungi and Sindhi cap to the delegation. The meeting was also attended by Registrar Dr Muhammad Siddique Kalhoro, Director Sindh University Alumnae, Dr Misbah B. Qureshi and other officials.
Later, the CG also visited different galleries including Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Gallery and Sindhology Museum. Director of the Institute of Sindhology, Muhammad Qasim Maka and In-charge of the museum, Saeed Mangi briefed the guests about the functions of the institute.