Women playing a critical role in Pakistan’s development: Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua

Women playing a critical role in Pakistan’s development: Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua

To mark International Women’s Day, the Embassy of Pakistan Washington D.C. hosted a special event earlier tonight showcasing the achievements of the women of Pakistan as well as women of Pakistani descent in the United States.

Ms. Tehmina Janjua, Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, was the Guest of Honor on the occasion. In her remarks, the Foreign Secretary highlighted the growing contribution of Pakistani women towards national development and progress. She stated that the Government of Pakistan remained committed to the empowerment of women in the country, particularly through active participation in the political and economic spheres. While acknowledging that a lot of work remained to be done, the Foreign Secretary said that women in Pakistan enjoyed far greater rights and freedom today than ever before.

Earlier, Amb. Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry welcomed the Foreign Secretary, who is the first woman to hold this high position. While lauding the rise of women to important positions in Pakistan and the improved awareness in the country vis-à-vis the rights of women, the Ambassador also highlighted the contribution made by Pakistani American women in the United States.

To highlight the diaspora’s accomplishments, three prominent Pakistani American women, representing different walks of life, were also invited to share their personal experiences. The speakers gave brief accounts of their achievements and encouraged women of Pakistani descent to work hard and excel in their respective disciplines to build a stronger diaspora and help build stronger ties between Pakistan and the United States.

U.S. Government officials, representatives from the academia and think-tank community as well as prominent members of the Pakistani American diaspora attended the event.