The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the United States by issuing a commemorative coin valued at 75 rupees.
A ceremony held in Islamabad on Thursday celebrated this significant milestone in the enduring partnership between the two nations.
The event was graced by the presence of Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi, the Foreign Secretary for Pakistan, who attended as the Chief Guest. Donald Blome, the US Ambassador to Pakistan, dignified the ceremony as the Guest of Honor.
In his welcoming address, Jameel Ahmad, Governor of the SBP, expressed gratitude to both the Foreign Secretary and the US Ambassador for participating in this momentous occasion. He emphasized that the issuance of the commemorative coin symbolizes the importance attached by both countries to their relationship, and the design of the coin signifies the collaboration of independent nations for the betterment of their people.
Governor Ahmad highlighted the significant economic ties between Pakistan and the United States, encompassing trade, Foreign Direct Investments, finance, and remittances. He also commended the deep people-to-people connections between the two nations, particularly in the field of education. He expressed hope that, given the promising future of the fintech sector in Pakistan and the SBP’s initiatives to support it, US fintech firms would explore and invest in the opportunities provided by these emerging businesses.
Foreign Secretary Syrus Sajjad Qazi praised the exquisite design of the commemorative coin, noting that it prominently features the national symbols of both Pakistan and the United States of America, symbolizing the democratic foundations shared by both countries. He paid tribute to the mutually beneficial relationship between Pakistan and the United States, acknowledging Ambassador Blome’s efforts in revitalizing this partnership.
Highlighting the multidimensional nature of the relationship, which spans trade, investment, defense, counter-terrorism, education, energy, climate, and health, the Foreign Secretary emphasized that high-level bilateral visits have played a pivotal role in strengthening this bond. He reiterated the importance of the Pakistan-US relationship for not only Pakistan and the United States but also the broader region, asserting that the coin would serve as a lasting symbol of their commitment to this long-standing association.
US Ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome, expressed that the coin represents the shared values, ideals, and common ties between the two countries, as well as their commitment to a brighter future. He thanked the State Bank of Pakistan for this meaningful gesture and expressed his hope for close collaboration with the Government of Pakistan. Ambassador Blome was confident that initiatives such as the US-Pakistan Green Alliance would facilitate joint efforts to address shared challenges.
Starting from August 25, 2023, the commemorative coin will be available through the exchange counters of SBP Banking Services Corporation. The coin is round in shape, milled with serrations on the edge, has a diameter of 30.00 mm, weighs 13.5 grams, and is made of Cupro-Nickel metal.
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