The Council of Pakistan (COP) hosted a community gathering in Los Angeles, featuring an insightful address by His Excellency Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States. The event was marked by the presence of several federal, state, and local elected officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and prominent leaders of the Pakistani-American community.
Ambassador Sheikh’s keynote remarks centered on the evolving regional dynamics in South Asia, emphasizing the importance of peace, security, and stability. He highlighted the critical significance of “Bunyanun Marsoos” — the concept of national unity and cohesion — in confronting external challenges and upholding Pakistan’s sovereignty and dignity.
The Ambassador reiterated Pakistan’s longstanding position on the peaceful resolution of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute, in line with international law and UN Security Council resolutions. He underlined the indivisible link between peace and sustainable development, stating that lasting regional prosperity depends on resolving core disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.
Ambassador Sheikh appreciated the constructive role of the United States in facilitating the recent ceasefire in South Asia and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace with dignity and regional coexistence.
In his remarks, the Ambassador also emphasized the vast potential for economic collaboration between Pakistan and the State of California, particularly in the fields of technology, clean energy, higher education, and innovation. He invited greater institutional and business linkages to harness the strengths of both economies.
He paid special tribute to the Pakistani-American community for their dynamic contributions and consistent efforts in building bridges between the two nations. He noted that their role is instrumental in strengthening Pakistan-U.S. bilateral relations and reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to remain closely engaged with the United States as a valued partner and friend.
U.S. officials present on the occasion also addressed the gathering.
Congressman Lou Correa acknowledged the contributions of Pakistani community in the U.S. and appreciated its role in enhancing Pakistan-U.S. relations.
State Senator Josh Newman remarked about strengthening Pakistan-U.S. relations in various fields. He expressed hope that the relations will continue to enhance in the years ahead.
California Assembly Member Sharon Quark Silva appreciated peaceful designs of Pakistan. She appreciated the hard work of Pakistani workers and acknowledged the contribution of Pakistanis in the economy of California.
The event concluded with a message of unity and shared purpose, celebrating the enduring people-to-people ties that bind Pakistan and the United States.
