Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, Mr. Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, conducted a series of public engagements on November 9th 2024. He was accompanied by the Consul General of Pakistan in Los Angeles during his visit to the San Francisco Bay Area, aimed at reinforcing constructive ties between Pakistan and its vibrant diaspora on the U.S. West Coast. Over the course of the day, the Ambassador met with three key community organizations, emphasizing the vital role of Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in facilitating their initiatives and strengthening Pakistan-U.S. relations.
In Fremont California, Ambassador Sheikh addressed a large gathering of the Pakistani-American community from different walks of life. He urged the community to remain united and promote harmony among its members. Providing an overview of Pakistan’s upbeat economic outlook, the Ambassador encouraged them to actively contribute to enhancing trade and investment between Pakistan and the United States. He underscored the pivotal role that the diaspora plays in fostering bilateral economic ties and highlighted the unwavering support offered by Pakistan’s diplomatic missions to facilitate their efforts in trade, investment, and community-building projects.
Later, the Ambassador attended the Annual Gathering of the APPNA Northern California Chapter, where he lauded the invaluable contributions of Pakistani-American physicians. He acknowledged their ongoing support to Pakistan’s social especially the healthcare sectors.
Ambassador Sheikh emphasized the importance of political engagement, advocacy, and concerted efforts to improve community’s well-being in the U.S. While underlining the need to take pride in their heritage and identity, he noted that Pakistan is progressing steadily due to the government’s sound policies. He urged APPNA members to leverage their influence and networks to strengthen Pakistan-U.S. bilateral ties further. APPNA’s President expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s engagement and thanked the Consul General of Pakistan in Los Angeles for his consistent efforts to connect with and support the community.
Ambassador Sheikh also participated in the Annual gathering of the NUSTIAN USA Alumni Association. He praised their initiatives in supporting NUST alumni in the U.S., their charitable work in Pakistan, and their efforts to assist underprivileged students in Pakistan. He encouraged NUSTIAN USA to leverage cutting-edge technology and tap into Pakistan’s burgeoning IT market to drive the country’s economic development.
The Ambassador highlighted in all public engagements that Pakistan’s diplomatic missions are committed to facilitating such collaborations and stand ready to support the community in implementing projects that benefit both Pakistan and its bilateral ties with the U.S.
Through these engagements, Ambassador Sheikh reiterated the commitment of Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in the U.S. to serve as a conduit and facilitator between the diaspora and Pakistan, fostering partnerships that drive progress, prosperity, and mutual understanding.
Sub Editor: Ghufran