US leather consultant abducted in Pakistan
A development expert from the US who was kidnapped in Pakistan on 13 August was working on a leather-related project in the country.
Warren Weinstein was abducted by gunmen on 13 August from his home in the eastern city of Lahore. Pakistani authorities have been unable to determine whether the kidnappers were criminals or Islamic militants, and FBI agents are investigating alongside Pakistani officials.
Mr Weinstein is the country director for Pakistan for J.E. Austin Associates, based in Arlington, Virginia. The company said in a statement that his efforts created hundreds of jobs and raised the standard of living in Pakistani communities.
J.A. Austin focuses on strategy and management consulting for developing economies. Mr Weinstein worked in Pakistan for several years on a variety of economic development initiatives funded both by the government and by private and corporate donors, the company said.
Mr Weinstein is married with two adult daughters and has a home in Rockville, Maryland.
According to police, he had been living in Pakistan for five to six years.
