Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Masood Khan says nearly 84 years ago, on March 23, 1940, the founding fathers of Pakistan passed a resolution in the historic city of Lahore. It was at that time that our ancestors saw the dream of our independence that became true in August 1947.
He made these remarks during a reception that was held at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington to celebrate National Day of Pakistan.
Masood Khan paid rich tribute to Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah for his strong conviction and visionary leadership that led to the creation of Pakistan.
He also thanked the State Department for working day in and day out to give a new vigor and strength to Pak-US ties.
He said Pakistan-United States relations have a magnificent past; and they have a bright future. He said both sides are working hard to recalibrate bilateral ties structured around trade, investment, green energy, healthcare, education and science and technology.
He reaffirmed women empowerment as an abiding obligation being a key driver of national success.
He said we are committed to a peaceful neighborhood where all countries live like a family.
The Ambassador said the people of Jammu and Kashmir should be allowed exercise their right to self-determination through a ballot box in accordance with the UN resolutions.
On this occasion, the Ambassador also decorated two Pakistani Americans Nasruddin Rupani and Hafeez Khan with Pakistan’s national awards.
Addressing the gathering, USAID Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Asia Michael Schiffer thanked the Ambassador for the invitation and for providing the opportunity to celebrate rich heritage and vibrant culture of Pakistan.
Michael Schiffer, on his part, said that US government supports Pakistan’s long term development aspirations.
He identified investments in hydropower, expanding Pakistanis access to technology, access to safe, high quality education for young and reducing barriers to trade and commerce between the two countries as major areas of cooperation.
Michael Schiffer said that Green Alliance Framework is helping Pakistan to meet the climate, energy and economic challenges of today and the challenges of the future.
He also highlighted approval of global climate fund to enhance climate resilience in Pakistan and to improve water security.
Michael Schiffer said that between October of 2022 and September of 2023, USAID successfully partnered with the Pakistani American diaspora to mobilize 197 million dollars for flood relief but also for investments in artificial intelligence and equity finance and electric vehicles in health in tourism, and other shared priorities that will help to unleash prosperity for Pakistan.
He said after 75 years our shared enthusiasm and our shared ambitions for the US Pakistan relationship remains as high as it has ever been.
