Delegation of US Journalists Callson Ambassador Aizaz Chaudhry
An eight-member delegation of US Journalists called on Ambassador Aizaz Chaudhry on March 9 before leaving for Pakistan on a week-long trip. The delegation’s visit has been organized by the International Centre for Journalists (ICFJ) Washington DC.
During the meeting, Ambassador Aizaz Chaudhry emphasized that to correct misplaced perception about Pakistan, there is a need to have a renewed look at Pakistan in changed circumstances. Pakistan has achieved unprecedented success in combating terrorism and the security situation has improved tremendously. These successes on the security front have led to economic progress, he explained.
Ambassador Aizaz Chaudhry briefed the US journalists, who belong to various media organizations in different States,on the tremendous sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and the tangible results achieved on ground. After successful military operations that have helped in clearing all troubled areas, we have already started socio-economic development work in these areas. The results of counter terrorism operations have a salutary impact on the economy as all major economic indicators are showing upward trends. Investment is also flowing in Pakistan from many countries, including the US, particularly for a large number of projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Ambassador Chaudhry reiterated that Pakistan has an unwavering commitment to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Pakistan would not let its soil be used to launch, or even plan, an attack against any other country in the region.
Responding to a question about the current state of Pakistan-US bilateral relations, Ambassador Chaudhry said that both Pakistan and the USA have always benefitted when they worked together and we are hopeful to continue working together in future as well.
Referring to the situation in Afghanistan, Ambassador Chaudhry remarked that peace in Afghanistan is imperative not only for Pakistan and Afghanistan but also for peace in South Asia. History bears testimony to the fact that instability in Afghanistan always has a spillover effect in other countries of the region particularly Pakistan. Pakistan will continue to play its role along with other partners in finding out a political solution of the Afghan issue. However, Pakistan generally believes that the peace process shall be Afghan-owned and Afghan-led, involving all stakeholders.
Ambassador Chaudhry appreciated the efforts of the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) in organizing exchange programs, sponsored by the US State Department. ICFJ takes American journalists to Pakistan and invites Pakistani journalists to the US on a regular basis. Such exchange initiatives promote harmony and better understanding about different cultures and faiths and bring people from both the countries closer to each other, he concluded.
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