Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad
Chaudhry and Mrs. Najia Ahmad hosted a luncheon reception and a briefing on
"Colors of Pakistan" for the DC based Women's Foreign Policy Group
which comprises of spouses of several Congressmen and diplomats, prominent
women leaders, and corporate executives. The panel of speakers included, Mrs.
Sarah Tariq Gilani, Ms. Maheen Ahmad, Ms. Cynthia Ritchie and Mrs. Najia Ahmad,
says a press release received here today from Washington DC.
Mrs. Najia Ahmad welcomed the guests and apprised the
audience about Pakistan by sharing interesting statistics. She stated that
Pakistan is a land of diversity and has a rich cultural heritage. She further
said that women in Pakistan are playing a pivotal role in Pakistani society and
are making their mark in various fields by breaking all societal barriers. Mrs.
Sarah Tariq Gilani made a detailed presentation on the Emerging Women of
Pakistan. She informed about the positive contribution of Pakistani women.
On the occasion, Ms. Maheen spoke on the topic
"Women and Islam". She emphasized that how Islam gave rights to women
which were illustrated by the life of Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) more than 1400
years ago. She shared women' contribution in the early days of Islam. Islam is
a religion of peace and tolerance, she added.
A documentary on "Emerging
Faces: Exploring Pakistan’s Hidden Treasures." made by Ms. Cynthia
Ritchie, a US citizen and a filmmaker, was screened. In her remarks, Ms.
Ritchie said that Pakistan is a fascinating combination of culture and
tradition bound by the centuries-old cherishment of common values of
hospitality, altruism and multi-culturism. She further stated that there is a
need to enlighten the western audience of the positive things about Pakistan
and to look for the reality beyond the popular news stories.
The presentations by speakers was followed by Q&A
session in which Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry briefed the group on a range
of vital foreign policy issues particularly the important role of Pakistan in
the evolving regional scenario, the role of women in Pakistan and the steps
being taken by the Pakistani Government to safeguard rights of women. He also
spoke about the extremely positive results of Pakistan's effective military
operations in the border region to eliminate terrorist outfits of all shades
and colors.
Towards the end of the event, the distinguished guests
thanked Ambassador and Mrs. Najia Ahmed for organizing such as interesting and
informative event about Pakistan and for their warm hospitality.