Bureau Report
CHICAGO: To commemorate the 84th Pakistan Day, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago organized a dignified reception. The event was attended by a large gathering of around 300 guests, including members of the Pakistani-American community, senior elected officials, Federal/States officials, representatives of Consular Corps, think tanks, academia and journalists. U.S. Congressman Jonathan Jackson was Chief Guest at the occasion.
In his address, Consul General Tariq Karim congratulated the members of the Pakistani-American community on the auspicious occasion of Pakistan Day. He recalled the historic struggle for Pakistan and paid rich tribute to the Father of the Nation, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and other leaders and workers of Pakistan’s Movement for their tireless efforts and countless sacrifices. He also expressed solidarity with the oppressed people of IIOJK, reiterating Pakistan’s continued support for their just and legitimate struggle for the right-to-self-determination. He also referred to the messages of felicitations from the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan.
The Consul General stated that, in the last 76 years, Pakistan has made tremendous progress on multiple fronts by overcoming various challenges. He highlighted that Pakistan’s geographic location, its demographic dividend and market size, democratic orientation, rich human and natural resources, rapid emergence of tech ecosystem and liberal investment policies have made Pakistan as an important business and investment destination. He also emphasized Pakistan as an attractive tourist destination which offers a wide range of sites for visitors. He stated that the government was working to address macroeconomic challenges by introducing various reforms. He mentioned that the establishment of SIFC was transforming the investment landscape of the country by providing a single window interface and speedy approvals. He also highlighted the steps taken by Pakistan to empower women and minorities.
The Consul General stressed the significance of longstanding relationship between Pakistan and the United States. He briefed about various dimensions of the bilateral relations, including growing trade volume and successful businesses of U.S. enterprises in Pakistan.
Consul General Tariq Karim highlighted his key priorities and initiatives and stated that Pakistan’s partnership with the Midwest region was growing with increase in trade, investment, and people-to-people contacts. He added that growth in Pakistani exports was impressive and Pakistani products could be seen at various stores across the Midwest. He briefed about the growing investments to Pakistan from the Midwest region especially in IT, Pink Rock Salt industry, healthcare, energy, and agriculture. He stated that the Joint-Venture Agreement recently signed between the Wisconsin-based MSCI and PMDC to promote the Pink Salt Industry in Pakistan highlights Pakistan as an important investment destination.
The Consul General highlighted the contribution made by the Pakistani-American community to the socio-economic development of the two countries and their bridge building role. He stated that members of the community have not only excelled in their respective fields but also played an important role in shaping the economic, technological, and cultural landscape of the United States. The Consul General urged the community members to adhere to the Quaid’s principle of Unity, Faith and Discipline and continue to play their active role in the socio-economic development of the two countries as bridge-builders.
In his remarks, Congressman Jonathan Jackson extended his warmest greetings on the Pakistan Day while recognizing the vital role of the Pakistani-American community. Other elected officials/dignitaries, including former Illinois’ Secretary of State Jesse White, also spoke at the occasion. On behalf of the people of Illinois, Illinois’ Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias sent a Proclamation to the Consul General, recognizing the significance of the Pakistan Day. Messages of felicitation were also received from several dignitaries including Congressman Sean Casten, Congressman Brad Schneider, Illinois’ Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Wisconsin State Rep. Samba Baldeh, Mayor Chicago Brandon Johnson, Mayor Basta of Bolingbrook. These messages, inter alia, recognized the contribution made by the Pakistani American community and importance of bilateral relations. Founder/President CWA and MASH Imam Arif Huskic presented an award to the Consul General for his services.
Consul General Tariq Karim along with his spouse and Congressman Jonathan Jackson cut the Pakistan Day cake.
There was a short cultural segment during which patriotic national songs of Pakistan were sung. Guests were also served with traditional Pakistani cuisine after Iftar. The ceremony concluded with prayers for the well-being and prosperity of Pakistan, its people and community members
