ISLAMABAD, March 1: The United States and Pakistan have made measurable progress to improve participation of women in politics in their respective countries during the past few years in spite of obstacles, American ambassador Nancy Powell said.

She was speaking at a seminar, held on the topic of “The changing role of women in management”, at the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) on Saturday.

“It is frequently asked whether greater political representation of women leads to policies that expand opportunities for women. If we look at the American model, the answer is an unequivocal yes,” the ambassador said.

In Pakistan, progress has been more dramatic, albeit by administrative fiat. The inclusion of 40,000 women councillors in local governments is the most revolutionary step. These women will serve their communities and build local political power bases that will, with time, reflect the local needs, and develop experienced political leadership, she added.

Ms Powell said: “The girl students must embrace the challenge of being better managers than all the men and women around them.”