Envoy lauds political maturity of Americans of Pakistani heritage

WASHINGTON, Oct 30 (APP)- Charge d'Affaires, Embassy of Pakistan Mohammad Sadiq Friday praised political maturity being demonstrated by Pakistani-American community, and said it was encouraging to see that the community was getting increasingly involved in American politics.

He observed this at the inaugural session of Young American Democrats of Pakistani-origin, at a function in Virginia.

He said the Pakistani-Americans were professional and energetic and were capable of accomplishing much more in the political arena. He mentioned the successful launching of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus on Capitol Hill as an example of the community’s political resourcefulness. By taking initiatives, stepping forward and getting involved, he said: "you can promote your interests, as well as contribute towards the U.S.-Pakistan relations."

Mr. Sadiq said the United States was a mosaic of different cultures and religious groups, and by pursuing various professions, Pakistani-Americans could become part of the mainstream America.

He congratulated the Pakistani-American youth for launching a political organization, and said it reflected their sense of commitment and political maturity. Such organizations, he said, would help train Pakistani-American youth in political activism.

Mr. Sadiq commended Mohsen Awan, President of Young American Democrats, for his efforts and initiative to organize the group .

Earlier, Wasif Shakeel, Executive Director of the group, made opening remarks, while Kahan Singh Dhillion, the group's co-chair, thanked the participants saying, he was proud to be of Pakistani origin.

October 30, 2004