WASHINGTON: The United States Department of State has announced the phased closure of the US Consulate in Peshawar, according to an official statement.
The statement said diplomatic engagement with Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province will now be managed by the US Embassy in Islamabad.
According to the State Department, the decision was made in the interest of ensuring the safety of diplomatic personnel and improving the efficient use of resources.
“Although the US presence in Peshawar is changing, the policy priorities of the US administration in Pakistan remain unchanged,” the statement said.
The department added that meaningful engagement with the government and people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would continue, with a focus on promoting economic ties, strengthening regional security, and advancing US interests.
The State Department also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Pakistan through its diplomatic missions in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.
