US consul general opens 7th Karachi Literature Festival

“No other forum provides such a setting for writers, intellectuals, and artists from across Pakistan and around the world. It highlights Pakistan’s dynamic literary tradition and Karachi’s rightful place as a cultural capital,” said Mr. Heath while delivering opening remarks at the festival..

The U.S. consul general pointed to USAID’s Pakistan Reading Program as doing much to advance the cause of literacy. The five-year, $160 million project aims to improve the reading ability of more than 1 million children in Pakistan.

At the festival, USAID is sponsoring a panel discussion on the role that communities and parents play in encouraging literacy and reading as well as a session on mother tongues as a medium of instruction and learning, said a statement.

Meanwhile, U.S. Consulate General Karachi is hosting panel discussions on cultural heritage and preservation, and the role of U.S. government exchange programs in promoting literature and the arts in Pakistan.

“We realize that it is important not only to develop basic literacy, but also to support and promote talented artists and young people who continue to contribute to Pakistan’s proud literary tradition,” said the US consul general. “Besides learning to read, we want participants to feel engaged with art that speaks to their experiences and aspirations.”