Democratic Congresswomen Sarah Jackson has launched the Congressional Pakistan Caucus Foundation (CPCF) at the Pakistan’s Embassy to help young American-Pakistanis engage politically, despite the recent dip in bilateral relations between the two countries.
Speaking to journalists at the launch event, Jackson said: “Even though funds were cut in the appropriations – the amendments that came to the floor to try to make it worse did not get support.”
Speaking on the trajectory of the Pakistani- American relationship, she said that the strength of Pakistan “is a very strong Pakistani- American community” that will help improve the bilateral relationship.
“The remarks by some members of the Trump’s administration don’t characterise the totality of our relationship and I would like to see continued dialogue and engagement, especially with the new PM,” she said.
Her view was echoed by Californian Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell, who voted against US President Donald Trump’s attempts to cut aid to Pakistan. “Suspending aid and elevating controversial issues above all other concerns is not the way to deal with Pakistan,” he said.
On the launch of the CPCF, he said: “Part of the mission of the foundation is to encourage young Pakistani Americans to come to Washington. The foundation will provide funds to those young people who do not have the financial means to work without pay.”
The Congressional Pakistan Caucus Foundation (CPCF), a non-partisan non-profit group, will work with the Congressional Pakistan Caucus. The foundation will include members of Congress working with Pakistani Americans. The aim of the foundation will be to help provide opportunities for American Pakistani young people in the US Political system.
Also in attendance was Texas Congressman, Henry Cellular, member of the appropriations committee. He said, “For any relationship, we need to look at what has worked.” Pakistan Consul General in Houston Aisha Farooqui said, “This is a recognition that the Pakistani community matters and the relationship matters.”
Published in Daily Times, December 22nd 2018.