KHAIRPUR: US Consul General in Karachi Grace W. Shelton, impressed by the infrastructure, culture and handicrafts of Kotdiji as well as the mystic poetry of saints, has observed that Sindh is the land of mystic saints like Sachal Sarmast, whose poetry pulls the listeners into the fold of mysticism.

Sachal’s message of love and peace was like a guiding lamp and there was greater need today to spread it among the masses, she said.

The US envoy was speaking to journalists after visiting historical Kotdiji Fort here on Thursday. She said that the infrastructure, culture and handicrafts of Kotdiji were unique and interesting.

The historical places like Kotdiji helped one learn history of a region, she said.

In reply to a question, she said the newly-elected president Donald Trump had not yet taken control of the White House. Once he entered the presidential house, he would announce the US policy towards Pakistan, she said.

Ms Shelton also attended a programme where folk singer Rajib Faqeer along with his troupe sang Sachal Sain’s kalam, which was enjoyed by the guests. Sukkur Commissioner Muhammad Abbas Baloch was also present.

Earlier, the commissioner briefed the envoy and the guests accompanying him about the culture, traditions and history of Kotdiji and the historic fort.

Ms Shelton also paid a visit to the Shah Abdul Latif University where she interacted with the students and faculty members at the building of Faculty of Education and delivered a talk on education. She said: “I am honoured to be here in this beautiful campus which has been named after great Sufi saint Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai whose message is the message of universal peace, love, affection and harmony”.

She said she liked the Kotdiji Fort and the land surrounding it and observed that it was a land of bridges and date palm orchards. Education was a key to progress and economic development, the future of Pakistan was bright on account of the tremendous efforts the country was making for the promotion of education, she said.

Education was top priority of the USA for Pakistan and especially for Sindh. Her country had helped rebuild 106 schools and provided Wi-Fi system in about 100 higher educational institutions in Pakistan to equip the youth with latest mode of technology, she said.

She said that more than 9,000 Pakistani students were enrolled in US academic institutions every year. 7000 girls were enrolled for non-formal education in Pakistan with the support of USA. Under the exchange programme, 1100 students had been enrolled in the US last year. “We are also providing ample opportunity to Pakistani students in the pursuit of Fulbright Scholarships,” she said.

The envoy was accompanied by Frank Talluto, economic officer, and Anthony Dean Tranchina, cultural attaché, during her visit.

Published in Dawn, November 18th, 2016