WASHINGTON: For the first time in the history of Pak-US relations, a landmark resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives on Thursday by Congressman Jamaal Bowman recognising 23rd March, 2023 as the Pakistan Day to honour and celebrate the important role played by the Pakistani-American community in strengthening and inspiring the people of the United States.
It is proper and desirable for the United States to recognise and pay tribute to those who foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural diversity, which strengthens the fabric of the communities of the United States, stated the resolution.
Pakistan Day provides an excellent means by which all residents of the United States can learn more about the rich Pakistani heritage while fostering an appreciation for the ancient culture among future generations, it stated.
Pakistan’s ambassador to the US thanked Congressman Bowman for his initiative which he said would not only help further strengthening bilateral relations of the two countries but would also help bringing the people of the two countries closer to each other.
He also thanked the leadership of American Pakistan advocacy group, including its president and prominent community leader Ali Rashid and other officer-bearers, who had been working hard maintaining a close liaison with the Congressman for introduction of the landmark resolution.
Recognizing 23rd March, 2023 as Pakistan Day and acknowledging valuable contributions of Pak-American citizens reflects the importance of Pak-US ties and a desire to further strengthen this relations, said Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Sardar Muhammad Masood Khan.
Masood Khan also met Congressman Bowman in his chamber who received him warmly and shared his views about the importance of the relationship and the critical role being played by Pakistani diaspora in various fields, including education, medicine, science, technology, business and industry.
Congressman Bowman, talking to media outside Capitol Hill, said that it was a matter of an honour for him to have introduced the resolution.
It is incredibly important for us at this moment as the US government to stand with the people of Pakistan who are dealing with a catastrophe that we have not seen in history. Ten million people still struggle to find access to clean water and energy. A third of the country destroyed. All of this because of what some would call a natural disaster but as we know is related to the issue of climate change, he said. “We must stand with Pakistan and make sure that we provide the resources that they need to recover from this horrible tragedy,” he continued.
Later, in his message to the people of Pakistan, Congressman Bowman greeted the nation on Pakistan Day and commencement of the month of Holy Ramazan and conveyed his message of peace and love to the people of Pakistan. Let us continue to work together to bring our two countries together, he said. —Sabah