US Companies Eye Investment in Sindh: CM Murad, Natalie Baker Discuss Flood Response, Food Security, and Keti Bandar Vision

KARACHI, Sept 24 Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah met with US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Ashton Baker at CM House on Wednesday, where they discussed a wide range of issues including flood preparedness, food security, energy and security cooperation, the Keti Bandar port project, and investment opportunities in Sindh.

The CM reaffirmed his government’s commitment to launching the Keti Bandar project, calling it “the first natural port in history” and the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. He stressed that Karachi Port is under immense pressure, making the development of a new port an urgent priority. Linking Shahrah-e-Bhutto directly to Karachi Port was also proposed to ease heavy traffic in the city.

Ms Baker announced that senior executives from leading American companies would soon visit Karachi to explore investment opportunities. She noted, “American companies are keen to invest in Sindh.” CM Shah assured full government support for potential investors.

Talks also covered energy and industrial cooperation, particularly Thar coal-based projects such as coal-to-gas, coal-to-fertiliser, and diesel production. The CM highlighted the need to maximise indigenous resources for sustainable development.

On disaster management, Murad Shah said Sindh had prepared extensively for a super flood, though this year’s situation was less severe. Both sides agreed to strengthen early warning systems, urban drainage, and emergency readiness. The US pledged $2.25 million in aid through the UN and NGOs for food, water, and sanitation, along with boats, tents, and water pumps from the US military.

Food security, police reforms, and prison modernisation were also key agenda items. The CM appreciated US support under the INL programme since 2012, which has enhanced training, equipment, and women’s police facilities, while modernising 22 prisons across the province.

The meeting further discussed initiatives for persons with disabilities. Ms Baker said American companies were keen to support education and vocational training for hearing-impaired children. CM Shah welcomed the interest, noting that the Sindh government is already working on education, rehabilitation, and empowerment programmes, and that “support from US institutions will be very valuable.”