WASHINGTON, D.C. – A high-level delegation from the Pakistani American Community of Long Island (PACOLI), led by Founder and Chairman Bashir Qamer, participated in the prestigious “U.S. and Pakistan: Past, Present, and Future” symposium held at the Capitol Hill Building in Washington, D.C.
The symposium was hosted by esteemed members of the U.S. Congress who oversee the Pakistan Caucus, Senator Tom Suozzi and Congressman Jack Bergman. Underscoring the event’s high diplomatic significance, the symposium featured special participation from the Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and Senior U.S. State Department Official Natalie Baker. Leading business figures and government officials from Pakistan also attended the forum, aiming to strengthen trade and governmental ties between the two nations.
*The PACOLI delegation included prominent officials Jamal Zafar, Hanif Rehman, Raja Arshad Hussain Satti, and Alisha Bari. Joining them was Chaudhary Faisal Mehmood, who represented both his role as a Director of PACOLI and his distinguished background as the former elected President of one of the largest Student Government Associations (SGA) in the State of New York.*
Throughout the symposium, various sessions delved into the strategic pillars of the bilateral relationship, including:
* Economic & Investment Cooperation
* Regional Security
* Political Synergy
* The Diaspora’s Pivotal Role in Diplomacy
*Reflecting on the significance of the event, Chaudhary Faisal Mehmood stated:*
> “It was a profound honor to represent the Student Government Association and join the PACOLI delegation at Capitol Hill. These sessions provided deep insights into our bilateral ties. Engaging with leading diplomats and policy experts to discuss the next chapter of this vital partnership is an experience that underscores the critical role of youth and community leadership in international diplomacy.”
The active participation of the PACOLI delegation highlights the organization’s steadfast commitment to fostering stronger ties between the United States and Pakistan, ensuring the Pakistani-American community remains at the forefront of policy discourse and diplomatic engagement.
