ISLAMABAD, (Parliament Times) : On the auspicious occasion of Pakistan Day, March 23, 2024, the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan bestowed the prestigious ‘Hilal-e-Quaid-i-Azam’ (Leadership) award upon USAID Administrator Samantha Power, for her support to Pakistan during the devastating floods of 2022. This significant event, held in Islamabad, symbolized the profound partnership between the United States and Pakistan and their shared commitment to progress and collaboration.
Accepting the award on behalf of the recipients, USAID’s Mission Director, Kate Somvongsiri, acknowledged the honor. In a video message, Administrator Power expressed her gratitude, underscoring the pivotal role of USAID in supporting Pakistan during challenging times. She reiterated USAID’s steadfast commitment to standing with Pakistan, guiding it through the recovery process and toward a brighter future. She also thanked the people of Pakistan for recognizing the enduring partnership between the two nations.
During the 2022 floods, the United States, led by USAID, was crucial to the emergency response. The U.S. contribution, totaling over $215 million, was further bolstered by significant donations exceeding $37 million from private American citizens and companies. This collective effort enabled the delivery of vital supplies, emergency shelter, clean water, food, and medicines to affected communities. Beyond immediate relief, USAID has continued to support Pakistan in long-term disaster resilience and food security initiatives. Their projects, focusing on water management, climate-smart agriculture, and climate adaptation finance, are a testament to their commitment to building a more resilient and prosperous future for vulnerable communities in Pakistan.