US Congressman honoured with Sitara-i-Khidmat for fostering Pakistan-US ties

Pakistan's Ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, awarded Congressman Alexander N. Green the Sitara-i-Khidmat for his exceptional efforts in enhancing Pakistan-US relations.

The award was presented at a special ceremony at the Pakistani Embassy in Washington DC on Monday.

The ambassador recognized Green's advocacy for a positive image of Islamabad in Congress and his work against Islamophobia.

The Pakistani Embassy in Washington stated on Monday that the ceremony was attended by Congressman Randy Weber, Representative Henry Cuellar, former Congressman Nick Lampson, Texas State Representative Suleman Lalani, as well as diplomats and notable members of the Pakistani American community from Texas and the DMV area.

"Your tireless efforts, geared to promoting a positive image of Pakistan across various forums, have certainly played a pivotal role in deepening diplomatic and economic ties between our two nations," said the ambassador.

Reflecting on Congressman Green's response during the 2022 floods in Pakistan, the ambassador noted that Green not only showed solidarity with Pakistan during a critical period but also returned to the US Congress to vigorously push for prompt aid.

"Your call to the wealthier nations at that point in time to step in and step up, given Pakistan's minimal contribution to the global emissions, demonstrated your genuine concern for justice and equity at the global level," Sheikh observed.

Green thanked the Pakistani government and people for the honor, viewing it as a "continuation of the friendship" between the two countries.

Green explained, "I went to Pakistan because there was a pressing need, and because the people, whom I consider part of my family, were suffering."

He emphasized the importance of maintaining unity, stating, "We must not allow any divisions between us. We share too much in common and have significant mutual needs."

He pledged to "strengthen our people-to-people relationships to ensure a lasting bond that benefits the countries I represent, and I look forward to returning to Pakistan."

Additionally, Sheikh commended Green for his crucial role in combating terrorism in the region and his support for important legislation such as the Pakistan Enduring Assistance and Cooperation Enhancement Act of 2009.

Sheikh highlighted the "long-standing relationship" between Pakistan and the US, built on shared values and mutual respect over more than seven decades, including collaborations on peace, economic development, and global challenges like terrorism and climate change.

"The strength of our partnership is rooted in robust people-to-people connections, and Congressman Al Green has been instrumental in fostering this essential relationship," the ambassador concluded.