Pakistani envoy hails students in US as bridges, builders for stronger ties

December 04, 2023 (MLN): Pakistani students in the US not only bridge ties between Pakistan and the US but also contribute to their home country through enriched experiences and expertise gained abroad, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US stated during a virtual meeting with Pakistani students on Sunday.

“You are a valuable asset for the country and for Pak-US relations,” he added.

PSAC is the largest coalition of Pakistani students with its members representing a diverse array of renowned US educational institutes.

Masood Khan lauded the initiative of PSAC in uniting Pakistani students’ associations under one umbrella and thus fostering a stronger and broader community of Pakistani students.

He also appreciated various initiatives being taken by the coalition towards promoting the cultural heritage of Pakistan and bringing the people of the two countries closer to each other.

“Your primary purpose is to excel in your chosen fields. This can never be ignored. But your secondary and equally important responsibility is to imbibe the rich educational ambiance inside the campus, outside of campus, across campuses of the United States,” he added.

“You have to respect the law of the land and you have to respect the norms of the hosts,” he said. “You project the real image of Pakistan,” he added.

He pointed out that there were misperceptions about Pakistan and its people and Pakistani students could be instrumental in showcasing the strength of the Pakistani nation.

“Each one of you is an ambassador in your own environment and in your social groups. Your conduct would reflect on our image as a nation. This is a huge responsibility that you need to be cognizant of,” he said.

The Ambassador also briefed the students on an upward trajectory of Pak-US relations and various areas of cooperation between the two countries including trade ties and the efforts to tap the economic potential of the relationship.

Responding to a question by a student, the Ambassador advised the students to make their mark in their studies, contribute their share towards cementing Pak-US ties, and also invest back in Pakistan.

“You are the future of Pakistan. Connect with the youth of Pakistan. Try to understand their concerns. Try to synthesize their aspirations and translate them into policy at different levels,” he said.

The Ambassador also urged the students who would soon be stepping into practical life to maintain a close liaison with leading Pakistani-American organizations of professionals and entrepreneurs including APPNA, OPEN for better networking and professional opportunities.

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