Pak diaspora urged to contribute to flood relief

Pakistani Americans briefed on the flood situation, urged to assist relief efforts

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Masood Khan, has appealed to the Pakistani-American community to wholeheartedly contribute to the flood relief operations in Pakistan.

Addressing the annual retreat of the Dow Graduate Association of North America (DOGANA) in Washington, the ambassador said a vibrant and successful Pakistani diaspora was a dependable asset and binding force between the two countries.

“Pakistani diaspora is the connective tissue between the two countries and doctors are the core of that community,” he said, emphasising the diaspora’s role in solidifying bonds of friendship between Pakistan and the United States.

He urged the Pakistani-American physicians to come forward and play their role in the national development of Pakistan. He particularly urged the youth to take lead in lifting the profile of growing Pakistani diaspora in the US.

On the occasion, the ambassador apprised the audience of the widespread destruction caused by the unprecedented floods in Pakistan and the requirements for assistance for the rehabilitation of the affected people and infrastructure.

Recalling the Pakistani diaspora’s contribution in past calamities including the 2005 earthquake and 2010 floods, he said, “The country has not forgotten your timely support and generous philanthropy.”

The ambassador also apprised the audience of the ongoing processes for continued placement of Pakistani doctors in the United States and assured them complete cooperation and support. He appreciated the leadership of DOGANA for their contribution.

While appreciating the role and support of Ambassador Khan, the DOGANA president thanked the Ambassador and the Pakistan Embassy for their proactive role in engaging the community.

DOGANA is associated with APPNA (Association of Physicians of Pakistani Decent of North America) and consist of alumni of Dow University of Health Sciences residing in North America. The event was attended by physicians and doctors from the US and Canada.