APPAC launched to dispel mis-perceptions about Pakistan in USA

Islamabad: American-Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) has formally been launched to dispel certain mis-perceptions about Pakistan, particularly its role against terrorism and extremism.

It will work to elevate the status of Pakistanis in the USA, and to bring them into mainstream of politics. This was announced here on Monday by APPAC’s Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmad.He told newsmen that they had started a dialogue process to highlight Pakistan’s peaceful role in the comity of nations. They will also work on people-to-people level to bridge the gap of mistrust and misunderstanding in the relations of the two countries.

They were approaching Democrats and Republicans in USA to convince them on their point of view that Pakistan, being the worst victim of terrorism, could never be a part of any move that harms peace and tranquillity in any manner whatsoever.

Dr. Ijaz Ahmad, who is doing private practice in New York as a senior cardiologist for the last 10 years, further said APPAC envisions and endeavours are to develop America in which all citizens are treated equally, regardless of their race, religious creed, or country of origin, in accordance with American values.

Their mission is to elevate the status of Pakistani-Americans and promote better relations between the US and Pakistan by encouraging the full political participation of Pakistani-Americans, working for interfaith harmony, and supporting candidates who vigorously oppose religious discrimination. The main objective of the APPAC is to support political candidates who are clear in their commitment to full civic and human rights for all, and who stand against bigotry, prejudice, and hate.

And at the same time to encourages Pakistani-Americans to participate fully in the political process, and creates opportunities for involvement.Dr. Ijaz vowed that they will mobilise the Pakistani community and make them a force in the socio-political systems to work for better relations between Pakistan and USA.