ISLAMABAD: New United States ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome arrived in Islamabad on Monday, US Embassy in Islamabad confirmed.
“Ambassador Donald Blome began his assignment at the United States Embassy in Islamabad today,” said a statement issued by the embassy.
Blome will lead the US mission in Pakistan in its ongoing efforts to deepen connections between the Pakistani and American people and work with the government of Pakistan towards a more stable, secure, and prosperous future for Pakistan.
On his arrival, Ambassador Blome said: “I am thrilled to be in Pakistan. I look forward to exploring this beautiful country and acquainting myself with its people and its culture.
“Most importantly, in this 75th year of US-Pakistan relations, I will continue to build on the strong relationship between our countries.”
Blome’s appointment comes some four years after Ambassador David Hale completed his three-year term in Islamabad and left for Washington to take over as undersecretary of state for political affairs.
US President Joe Biden had recommended renowned diplomat Blome to be the new US ambassador to Pakistan last year and on December 14, 2021. The US Senate’s Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing to consider his nomination
Blome is a career member of the senior foreign service with the rank of Minister-Counselor. He has long experience in the Middle East region and speaks Arabic. He was earlier posted as US Ambassador to Tunisia.
Blome served as the Civilian Co-Director, Multinational Force Strategic Engagement Cell, Baghdad, Political Counsellor, Embassy Kuwait, and as Israel Desk Officer, Deputy Director and Acting Director, Office of Israel and Palestinian Affairs.
