US to close its Peshawar consulate, move operations to Islamabad

WASHINGTON: The U.S. Department of State Tuesday announced the phased closure of its  Consulate General in Peshawar, citing safety concerns for its diplomatic personnel and better resource management.
 “Responsibility for diplomatic engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will transfer to the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad,” the department said in a press release.
“This decision reflects our commitment to the safety of our diplomatic personnel and efficient resource management,” it said.
“While our physical presence in Peshawar is changing, the Administration’s policy priorities in Pakistan remain steadfast.  We will continue to engage meaningfully with the people and officials of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to foster economic ties, promote regional security, and advance the interests of the American people.
“The Department, through the U.S. Mission to Pakistan, remains dedicated to advancing the U.S.-Pakistan relationship through our remaining diplomatic posts in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.” –Agencies