US Sponsors Pakistani-American Author

Karachi: The United States Consulate General Karachi supported for the second year a major international literature festival in Karachi to recognize and promote Pakistan’s remarkable literary talent. The two-day event brought together an array of authors, intellectuals, and media personalities from Pakistan and abroad.

This year, the United States sponsored the participation of Pakistani-American Nafisa Haji, the author of two critically acclaimed novels, “The Writings on My Forehead,” and, “The Sweetness of Tears.” During the festival, she participated in a panel moderated by Dr. Marilyn Wyatt, wife of US Ambassador Cameron Munter, entitled “Women Writing Women: A Conversation with Nafisa Haji, Bina Shah, and Maniza Naqvi.”    

Speaking at the opening of the festival on February 11, Dr. Marilyn Wyatt encouraged participants to donate a book purchased at the Karachi Literature Festival to school libraries supported by the Ambassador’s Fund in Karachi. “Donating a book so a child can read is an effort in which we can all take part, because we all know how important it is,” Dr. Wyatt remarked at the event.  The Oxford University Press has pledged to donate 5,000 books to school libraries supported by the Ambassador’s Fund as well.

The United States, through the Ambassador’s Fund, has committed to build or refurbish library rooms in up to 10 schools serving needy children in Karachi and surrounding areas. The Ambassador’s Fund provides grants to those working to strengthen civil society, community development, and grass roots initiatives.

US support of the Karachi Literature Festival is part of a long-term commitment by the United States to partner with Pakistan in the development, promotion, and preservation of indigenous arts and culture.

 

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