The United States applauded Pakistani resilience in the face of challenges as senior officials and Pakistani-Americans celebrated Pakistan Day at the country’s embassy on Friday.
Ambassador Thomas A. Shannon, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs and Indiana Congressman Andre D. Carson expressed their appreciation for Pakistan as Islamabad’s new ambassador, Aizaz Ahmed Chauhdry, hosted a reception.
The two countries are looking forward to developing closer cooperative relationship amidst new security challenges in the region as well as prospects of greater trade and economic cooperation.
In his remarks, Ambassador Shannon noted that the Pakistani people have overcame all obstacles to make progress. He felicitated Ambassador Chaudhry on assuming his assignment in Washington D.C and assured him of his support.
While highlighting the long history of bilateral cooperation, he appreciated Ambassador Chaudhry’s resolve for creating a better environment and understanding to strengthen Pakistan-US relationship.
Congressman Andre Carson commended Pakistani-Americans for their contribution to American prosperity and making ‘the US and the world a better place’.
He reminded Americans that Pakistan — the country ‘founded by Muhammad Ali Jinnah’ — was a vibrant country of progressive people. He vowed to continue his work with Pakistani-Americans to the mutual interest of both nations.
March 23rd marked the 70th anniversary of Pakistan Resolution passed in 1940 for establishment of the country.
This was the first public event of Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry. In his brief remarks, the Ambassador underscored the changing reality of a resurgent Pakistan.
He informed that Pakistan is on a path to economic transformation after overcoming multiple challenges including terrorism.
Ambassador Aizaz Chaudhry with Pakistani-American marathon runners
He expressed his commitment to maintain close cooperation with the United States to further deepen and broaden the historical ties.
On the occasion, the top Pakistani diplomat also introduced to the audience a group of Pakistani-American athletes led by Agha Hasnain Qizilbash who had the unique honor of running in all 50 states of the United States and on all continents including Antarctica.
Ambassador Chaudhry described them as ‘the true ambassadors of Pakistan’ who left an imprint of Pakistan-US friendship on all American states.
The event was attended by more than 500 people from including diplomats, entrepreneurs, think tank experts, writers, Pakistani-American community leaders. The embassy also showed documentaries highlighting Pakistan’s achievements.
