The United States Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Natalie Baker joined Balochistan's Parliamentary Secretary Nawabzada Mir Muhammad Zarain Khan Magsi and the leadership of the Sindh Exploration and Adventure Society (SEAS) on Saturday to mark the completion of the Mehrgarh Museum of Balochistan project. This initiative, funded by the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), represents the first-ever AFCP project in Balochistan.
According to a press release, the project was implemented in partnership with SEAS and the Balochistan Culture Department. The initiative preserved ancient Neolithic and archaeological artifacts from the historic Mehrgarh civilization, upgraded museum curation to international standards, expanded community outreach, and trained local heritage professionals to ensure long-term collection care. The release stated that the AFCP footprint now spans all four provinces of Pakistan, reinforcing the US’ enduring commitment to protecting Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.
During her address at the completion ceremony, CDA Baker highlighted the power of American expertise to deliver tangible, lasting results and foster trust between the peoples of both nations. She stated that through American excellence in museums and heritage preservation, the Mehrgarh Museum of Balochistan will showcase the 8,000-year-old Mehrgarh civilization and many others.
CDA Baker also noted that projects such as this one show what American expertise delivers: lasting, tangible results that preserve history, create jobs, and strengthen local communities. She added that together, the US and Pakistan are making real progress in protecting this remarkable legacy.
CDA Baker, Parliamentary Secretary Magsi, and project leads including Dr Asma Ibrahim and Dr Kaleemullah Lashari unveiled a commemorative plaque at the entrance of the Mehrgarh Museum in Quetta. The museum is scheduled for an official reopening later this month.
