PESHAWAR: The United States has appointed Tom Eckert as the new Consul General at its diplomatic mission in Peshawar, ushering in a new chapter in U.S.-Pakistan relations focused on regional engagement, economic development, and cultural exchange.
Eckert, a veteran diplomat and senior career member of the Foreign Service, brings more than two decades of experience to the position. He previously served as Senior Regional Security Officer and Acting Chargé d’Affaires in Cyprus, and has held key assignments in Iraq, Afghanistan, Gabon, Vietnam, and Burma since joining the U.S. Department of State in 2003.
At a reception hosted by the U.S. Consulate General in Peshawar, Eckert expressed excitement about his new role and emphasised his commitment to working with government officials, businesspeople, students, and community leaders in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). “I am honoured to be here and look forward to building on the strong foundation of U.S.-Pakistan cooperation,” he said.
Eckert described KP as “a place of extraordinary heritage and hospitality,” and also highlighted his interest in exploring the region’s renowned culture and cuisine.
The appointment comes at a time when the United States is expanding its development and security partnership in KP, including initiatives in education, agriculture, climate resilience, and women’s empowerment. The consulate has played a key role in supporting USAID-funded programs and cultural preservation efforts throughout the province.
Local officials and civil society representatives welcomed Eckert’s arrival, expressing hope that his leadership will further strengthen bilateral relations and open new avenues of cooperation.
Eckert replaces Shante Moore, who served as Consul General until earlier this year. His arrival signals continued US engagement in northwest Pakistan with a focus on peace, prosperity and mutual understanding.
The US opened a new chapter in its relations with Pakistan with a new statement from its chief minister in Peshawar, marking a new beginning in relations with Pakistan, focusing on regional economic and cultural development.
In a statement from the new US general in Peshawar, Eckert expressed his enthusiasm for the role and stressed his commitment to working with regional officials, businesspeople, students and leaders in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). “I am honoured to be here and the United States looks forward to building a strong foundation of cooperation with Pakistan,” he said.
Eckert described KP as “a place of extraordinary heritage and culture,” adding that he also included his desire to explore its unique culture.
The appointment comes at a time when the US and Pakistan are providing support to KP, including initiatives in education, agriculture, climate resilience and women’s empowerment. The Society has played a key role in supporting USAID-funded programs and cultural preservation efforts.
Representatives from local civil society and civil society welcomed the appointment, expressing hope that it would further strengthen their bilateral relationship and open new avenues.
Eckert replaced Moore, who was serving as General Tak Shan at the beginning of this year. His arrival signals the continued focus of the American Broadcasting Corporation on peace, prosperity and cooperation in northwest Pakistan.
Read also: German consulate resumes visa processing for Pakistan
