A live screening of US Election Day was organised at the US consul-general’s residence for people in Karachi to experience the thrill and excitement of the day. PHOTO: AYESHA MIR/EXPRESS
KARACHI: On a sunny Wednesday morning, people enjoyed breakfast while watching the screening of the United States elections at the US consul-general's residence in Karachi.
It was momentous to see and witness the surge in excitement and apprehension as Pakistanis discussed American politics and policies. Hearts stopped as the votes were counted and Republican-nominee Donald Trump triumphed against of Democrat-nominee Hilary Clinton.
A blessing in disguise for Pakistan?
"It is such an exciting day for us and is such an important day for us. I strongly feel that what lays within us it is diversity. Thousands of people cast their votes to elect the 45th President of the United States," said US consul-general Grace Shelton while presiding over the event. "Regardless of who wins [the election], we will continue to support Pakistan."
"This is an exciting day for us. Americans have voted. It's our 200-year-old tradition to vote and we take it very seriously; it is certainly very important to us," remarked US consulate public affairs officer John Warner.
Pakistanis react
Four television screens were set up at the consulate for people to experience the excitement of the election. "So far, it looks like that these elections are fair. Americans have a democratic mindset and it's not based on unfair attitude. Americans elections are as important for the US as for the world," said theatre artist Faisal Malik.
Barrister Shahida Jamil, while watching BBC World News said, "Americans are very protective and supportive of their national interests.
However, about Pakistan, one can say that we are a polarised nation, when it comes to electing a leader".
Both Trump and Clinton will have the same policies towards Pakistan, predicted businessman Majyd Aziz Balagamwala.
Undeterred by Trump’s victory, Pakistan remains positive
"These policies and practices are often led by the US state department, who in return is fostered by many think-tanks. The day Russian president [Vladimir]Putin comes to Pakistan, US policies towards Pakistan will have a major shift."
Speaking about Trump's victory, Balagamwala said, "Basically, Trump wants to bring change for American people and he wants Americans to have jobs"
Senator Nasreen Jalil said, "Pakistanis should not feel threatened by any world leader".
Speaking about the results she remarked, "I had hoped Hillary Clinton would win because of the issues she has addressed on women empowerment".
Published in The Express Tribune, November 10th, 2016.
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