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Author: World News

  • Brooklyn Mosque Volunteer sues NYPD over ‘false’ arrest at his place of worship

    New York: Brooklyn mosque volunteer named Ishtiaq Ahmed filed a federal lawsuit on Tuesday alleging that New York Police Department (NYPD) officers falsified an “assault” that never happened in order to arrest Mr. Ahmed and intimidate him and his mosque community.

    According to a press note released from the lawyer of Ishtiaq Ahmed, NYPD officers fabricated the assault after an interaction in which Mr. Ahmed enforced social distancing restrictions against members of service attempting to enter the Makki Masjid mosque’s prayer room during services.

    The press release alleges that NYPD officers falsely reported that Mr. Ahmed assaulted a member of the mosque community during that interaction, even though CCTV footage confirms that no assault happened. The purported victim of the assault also told media outlets that no assault occurred and that he never made a report to the police.

    Based on their ‘fabricated’ report, NYPD officers arrested Mr. Ahmed, jailed him for 24 hours, and charged with him assault. It took months for the false charges to be dismissed.

    “When I came to this country, I never expected police here could do this,” Mr. Ahmed said. “They targeted me and destroyed my life to make an example of what happens if you question them. Police act like they can get away with anything they want in our community.”

    According to the Complaint, the ‘fabricated’ report was retaliation for the mosque’s recent objection to NYPD officers seizing the mosque pulpit to make speeches promoting the NYPD, as well as Mr. Ahmed’s effort to apply the mosque’s social distancing restrictions against NYPD officers. The Complaint alleges that NYPD officials had regularly visited the Makki Masjid mosque in Brooklyn’s “Little Pakistan” neighborhood to make such speeches as part of “community policing” tactics that were actually intended to divide the community.

    The Complaint alleges that the officers intended to humiliate, intimidate, and punish Mr. Ahmed and his community for denying them unfettered access to the mosque.

    “NYPD framing Mr. Ahmed was part of a decades-long police campaign to intimidate and control the city’s Muslim communities,” said attorney Shakeer Rahman. “Although NYPD has tried to rebrand its surveillance of immigrants as ‘community policing,’ Mr. Ahmed’s experience shows how this reform is just as violent as the tactics of the past.”

    According to the press release, the fabrication was perpetuated by several NYPD officers, including Deputy Inspector Richard Taylor—who was present during the interactions that NYPD falsely characterized as an assault.

    “It is unacceptable that several NYPD officers thought they could lie about Mr. Ahmed and get away with it,” said attorney Sam Barr. “This culture of impunity has to end.”

    As a result of his false arrest, Mr. Ahmed claims that he suffered physical injuries and has experienced emotional distress, including post-traumatic stress disorder. He also lost his Taxi and Limousine Commission license upon his arrest, and the incident had a devastating effect on his ability to support his family.

    “Since the arrest last year I have not been able to sleep, I get nightmares and suicidal anxiety, I have been terrified to go to the Friday prayers, and I cannot even look at the clothes I was wearing that day,” Mr. Ahmed said. “My children feel the trauma too, their grades at school are suffering, and they tell me they want to leave the country.”

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Seven decades on, India obstructed UN efforts to implement UNSC resolutions on J&K: Pakistan’s FM Bilawal

    New York: Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Wednesday said that over the last 7 decades, India has obstructed the efforts of the UN mechanisms to implement the UN Security Council’s resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).

    Addressing the 12th Ministerial Meeting of the UN Group of Friends of Mediation, titled “Avoiding Humanitarian Crises through Mediation” Bilawal said the continuation of India’s illegal actions was manifested in the unilateral measures taken on and since 5 August 2019 to annex the occupied territory of Jammu and Kashmir without even the fig leaf of legal justification or plebiscite.

    He said the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is one of the oldest issues on the agenda of the Council. At the outset, the Security Council decided that “the final disposition of the State of Jammu and Kashmir will be made in accordance with the will of the people expressed through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite conducted under the auspices of the United Nations”.

    The Security Council also instituted several mechanisms to secure the implementation of its decisions on Jammu and Kashmir, including:

    1. a) the UN Commission on India and Pakistan (UNCIP);
    2. b) the deployment of the UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP); and
    1. c) the appointment of several distinguished Special Representatives.

    To this end, Pakistan continues to advocate a more active role by the United Nations Security Council and the Secretary-General.

    We urge the Secretary-General to avail the full panoply of mediatory measures available to him under Article 99 of the UN Charter to persuade India to reverse its unilateral measures and agree to promote an equitable solution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with Security Council resolutions and

    the UN Charter. The Security Council should give full support to the Secretary- General in using his good offices to this end.

    Bilawal said “let me begin by thanking the Co-Chairs Turkiye and Finland for organizing 12th Ministerial Meeting of the UN Group of Friends of Mediation and their successful stewardship of this initiative.”

    Pakistan also commends the UN Secretary General and President Erdogan of Turkiye for successfully mediating the landmark Black Sea Grain Initiative.

    He said The important role of the United Nations in conflict prevention is unquestionable.

    Bilawal said the Charter of the United Nations contains a comprehensive framework for the pacific settlement of disputes. At any stage of a conflict, the Security Council can recommend to the parties appropriate procedures or methods of settlement of their dispute, which may include mediation under Chapter VI of the Charter.

    Under Article 37 and 38, the Security Council also has the power to recommend terms of settlement to the parties, if they request this or if the Council considers that the continuance of their dispute is in fact likely to endanger the maintenance of international peace and security. Over the years, the Security Council has also established subsidiary organs to carry out mediation in pursuance of this core mandate.

    Nearly 77 years after the signing of the Charter, the challenges and threats to peace and security are perhaps more complex, but the Charter’s purposes and principles remain valid and immutable. It is imperative to reaffirm our commitment and confidence in these principles and to promote solutions to disputes and conflicts, between large and small States, on the basis of these principles.

    The Secretary General’s repeated calls for a ‘surge in diplomacy’ for peace is both urgent and important. And, such a surge of diplomacy must emanate from the United Nations and the machinery that is available to it for the purpose, including for mediation and similar means of dispute resolution.

    While the United Nations has had several successes in mediating political settlements to disputes and conflicts, it could and should have done more and with greater success.

    In conclusion, Excellencies, let me say that Pakistan is a proud member of the Group of Friends of Mediation, and I would like to thank the Chairs and all the members of the Group for their work.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • France, Pakistan agree to join hands for economic revival, reconstruction of flood-hit areas

    New York:

    According to APP News, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday had a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly here.

    Besides exchanging views on the enhancement of bilateral relations, the two leaders agreed on mobilizing international support for Pakistan to help recover and rebuild its economy on a sustainable footing in the aftermath of the recent devastating floods in Pakistan related to climate change.In order to gather the relevant International financial partners and development partners, France will host an international conference before the end of the year aiming at contributing to the rehabilitation and reconstruction of flood-affected areas of Pakistan.

    France would also help with climate-resilient reconstruction-related financing, to accelerate the transition to renewable energy.

  • NYC, Manhattan gets world’s attention as protesters gathers during UNGA 77

    Web Desk:

    During the 77th session of the UNGA, people from different countries are recording their protests on the streets of Manhattan, New York.

    At 44th Street 2nd Avenue, Iranian-Americans from various cities in the United States gathered and recorded a protest against the current President Ebrahim Raisi and his government.The protest was attended by a large number of young Iranian-American boys and girls, men and women, who carried banners, placards, and pictures of the Iranian president with various demands written on them. The protesters said that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who has come to New York,   should be prevented from attending a meeting. The protesters said that they will also record a large protest during the Iranian President’s speech tomorrow.

    People from African countries also held a rally on 47th Street and reached the street reserved for protesters behind the United Nations headquarters. The men and women participating in the protest were wearing red shirts and were holding various banners and placards in their hands.

    Protesters demanded that the United Nations and the international community take strict action against the military that has seized power in their country. The protestors also demanded that martial law should be abolished and power should be transferred back to the democratic government.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Dinosaur dummy stands in NYC over Climate Change

    Web desk:

    A dummy dinosaur that became the center of attention, was brought to the streets of New York as a protest to stop all the actions that lead to climate change.

    During the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly, citizens of different countries are recording their protests in favor of their demands while environment-friendly organizations brought a dinosaur outside the UN headquarters in New York as a protest. Protestors asked that measures taken to harm the environment should be stopped and an alternative route should be taken instead of deforestation.

    Organizers of the protest said that for the survival of the earth, it is necessary to make the environment human-friendly and discourage all actions that harm the environment.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • PM Shahbaz Sharif meets French President on sidelines of UNGA session

    New York:

    According to the APP News, Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday met with President of France Emmanuel Macron, on the sidelines of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly here.

    During the meeting, they discussed bilateral ties as well as matters of regional and international importance.

    Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Finance Minister Miftah Ismail, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb, Minister of State Hina Rabbani Khar, and SAPM Tariq Fatemi accompanied the prime minister.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Pakistan’s PM arrives in NY to participate in the high-level general debate of UNGA77

    By our correspondent

    New York: Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif arrived at the United Nations Headquarters to attend the reception given by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, in honor of the heads of state and government participating in the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    The premier has arrived in New York to participate in the High-Level General Debate of the 77th Session of UN General Assembly (UNGA77), scheduled from 20 to 26 September 2022 at UN HQs, New York, USA.

    According to a statement issued by the media wing of the Prime Minister’s Office, Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif will spend a busy day in New York today.

    The Prime Minister will participate in the opening session of the high-level discussion of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    Besides this, the Prime Minister will hold bilateral meetings with H.E Mr. Emmanuel Macron, President of the Republic of France;  H.E Mr. Karl Nehammer, Federal Chancellor of the Republic of Austria; H.E Mr. Pedro Sanchez Perez-Castejon, President of Spain: and H.E Mr. Sayyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

    In the afternoon, the Prime Minister will visit The Times Centre for an interview with the New York Time’s Editorial Board.

    In the evening, the Prime Minister will be called on by Mr. John Kerry, US Special Envoy for Climate Change.

    The Prime Minister was received at John F Kennedy (JFK) International Airport, New York by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Munir Akram, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Washington Masood Khan and other senior officers.

    Meanwhile APP added: The prime minister is set to address the 193-member Assembly during its high-level debate on September 23.

    The debate opens Tuesday and ends on Sept. 26

    The prime minister flew into New York from London where he attended the final rites of Queen Elizabeth II.

    On his arrival at New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport , he was received by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Munir Akram, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Washington, Masood Khan, Consul General in New York, Ayesha Ali and other senior officials.

    On September 20, the prime minister would attend a reception to be hosted by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

    On the same day, he would also meet French President Emmanuel Macron, the Austrian chancellor and the Spanish president.

    A meeting with President of the European Union Council Charles Michel and participation in Global Food Security Summit to be hosted by President of Senegal and the African Union is also on the agenda of the prime minister’s visit.

    On September 21, he would meet Managing Director of International Monetary Fund Kristalina Georgieva and President of World Bank David Malpass, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.

    Besides meeting with the UNGA president, Csaba Korosi, the prime minister would also attend a dinner reception to be hosted by US President Joe Biden.

    Prime Minister Sharif will also host a luncheon reception in honour of Turkish president and his spouse, besides meeting with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto.

    Meetings with Microsoft founder Bill Gates and the UN chief, Chinese President Premier Li Keqiang and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida are also part of the prime minister’s engagements.

    He would also meet Luxembourg PM Xavier Bettel and Malaysian PM Ismail Sabri Yaakob on the same day, besides interacting with international media outlets.

  • Pakistan asks the world to mobilize resources for basic quality education

    UN: Pakistan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar has said that in order to ensure a peaceful world, every child must have access to quality education, and she called upon the world to mobilize resources, in this regard.

    She was addressing the G77 “Transforming Education Summit” (Accessibility feed) at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Monday.

    She said the current state of global education does not reflect the estimated targets, and this is not a good omen for a peaceful and prosperous world at large.

    She said that ‘political will, as well as the international solidary, are the basic preconditions for the provision of quality education amongst the children.

    She called upon the international community to mobilize resources so that the very right of access to evidence-based, yet quality education could be ensured amongst children across the globe, without any discrimination.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York: Ceremony held in connection with the Muslim day Parade.

    News Desk:

     A ceremony was organized in connection with the 38th Annual Muslim Day Parade in Brooklyn, New York. The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and Naat-e-Rasool-e-Maqbool.

    President of the Muslim Foundation of America, Mian Fayyaz, while addressing the participants, said that if all the Pakistani Muslims living here work hard, they can make this parade successful. While addressing the participants, the founder of the Muslim Day Parade, Ain-ul-Haq said that every year, the parade is organized for the unity and solidarity of Muslims of New York. He further said that the aim was to prove the unity and solidarity of Muslims in all countries.

    Chairperson of the Muslim day Parade, Faras Fiaz, said that more and more people should participate in this parade to make it successful.

    Participants of the event said that the first Muslim Day parade is being organized after Covid-19 for the promotion of Islamic traditions and values, which is the responsibility of all of us to make it successful.  The Muslim Day Parade will begin on September 25th in Manhattan. Participants have requested the community to participate in the maximum number.

  • A Sikh and a Pakistani community captain posted in NYPD promoted to the rank of commanding officers

    New York: A Sikh and a Pakistani community captain posted in the New York Police Department have been promoted to the rank of commanding officers

    The two South Asians have been promoted to the position of Commanding Officer in the New York Police Department.

    Amanjeet Sandhu of the Sikh community who has been promoted to the rank of Commanding Officer from Captain has been posted in District Transit 1, and is the first Commanding Officer in the Sikh community.

    The Sikh community has expressed great joy on receiving this post.

    A Pakistani officer posted in NYPD has also been promoted. Captain Muhammad Ashraf has been promoted to the rank of Commanding Officer in District 12.

    Muhammad Ashraf is a board member of the Muslim Officer Society, while the other Pakistani-Americans who have been given the post of commanding officer are Pakistani-Americans.

    In celebration of his promotion, Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana, Commanding Officer of Muslim Officer Society, along with others, cut the cake and congratulated the entire Pakistani community.

    Adeel Rana also advised the youth of the community to join the police force for their better future.

  • U.S is likely to grant temporary legal status to Pakistanis living in America: Senator Bob Menendez’s Chief of Staff assures APPAC

    New York: US Senator Bob Menendez’s Chief of Staff has assured the American Pakistani Public Affairs  Committee (APPAC) that the Biden administration will soon grant temporary legal status to Pakistanis living in the US.

    After receiving TPS status, Pakistanis living in the US who do not have legal immigration documents will be given temporary legal status for a specific period, and the facility may extend further.

    The American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee had an important meeting with the Chief of Staff of Senator Bob Menendez in this regard.

    In this meeting APPAC Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmed, Board Member Dr. Inamul Haq, Mrs. Fakhira Haq, Dr. Mahmood Alam, Professor Faizanul Haq, Asad Chaudhary and Imtiaz Rahi were present.

    In the meeting, Dr. Ijaz Ahmed informed Senator Bob Menendez Chief of Staff about the flood disasters in Pakistan.

    In view of the flood situation, there was a detailed discussion regarding the provision of temporary legal status by the Biden administration and the Department of Homeland Security to Pakistanis living in the United States who do not have legal documents.

    US Senator told the APPAC team that Bob Menendez along with his other congressional colleagues, has been in contact with the Biden administration on the issue of TPS for Pakistanis and is also doing special work on the issue.

    He has assured that the Biden administration will soon give temporary legal status to Pakistan. After receiving TPS status, Pakistanis living in the US who do not have legal immigration documents are granted temporary legal status for a specified period. The status will be granted and extension is also possible.

    APPAC expressed the expectation that Pakistan will be granted TPS status for at least three years in the first phase.

    Earlier, Dr. Ijaz Ahmed said that one-third of the country has been subjected to flood water and destruction, more than 1500 citizens and 1.3 million cattle have been killed while the population of 30 million is affected by the flood so far.

    He said the restoration will require billions of dollars.

  • Imam Hussain Conference: Religious scholars argue there is no Shia-Sunnis rift at all.

    New York: Leading scholars, both Sunni and Shia living in the U.S, came together at the annual Imam Hussain (A.S) Conference in Brooklyn, and called for unity among the followers of the two prominent Muslim schools of thought and thwart the nefarious designs of those who are hell-bent upon creating sectarian rifts among the

    Religious scholars said that there is no conflict of personal differences in Shia-Sunnis – the two main schools of thought in Islam.

    It is the responsibility of all of us to discourage the conspiratorial elements who spread sectarianism and prejudice.

    Scholars from different schools of thought from Pakistan and India participated in the annual Imam Hussain conference held at a local hotel on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn, New York.

    The conference was started with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by the presentation of Naat-e-Rasool Maqbool (PBUH).

    In their address to the conference, Ahle-e-Sunnat scholars said that none of the Qur’an and Ahlul-Bait can be left out. The Messenger of Allah, peace, and blessings of Allah be upon him, has explained the virtues of the Ahlul-Bait in clear words.

    Apart from scholars, a large number of the Pakistani community living in Brooklyn also participated in the Imam Hussain conference. In their address to the participants, the scholars said that the grandson of the Prophet (peace be upon him) stood up against falsehood in the field of Karbala and gave a message to the living world that the truth can never bow down to falsehood.

    Scholars showed a wonderful practical demonstration of unity and solidarity. Addressing the audience, the Shia scholars said that a lover of Imam Hussain is not a Shia or a Sunni, but a Hussaini in real sense. Imam Hussain always gave the message that never support oppression but always support the oppressed.

    At the end of the conference, Ayatollah Allama Dr. Sakhawat Hussain Sundralvi thanked all the scholars and attendees for their presence and prayed for the relief of flood victims in Pakistan.

  • State of Texas offers highest job opportunities in U.S: Governor Greg Abbott

    TEXAS: Texas Governor Greg Abbott has said that Texas is the state with the strongest economy in the United States, and the job opportunities are the highest among all other states. He said the Texas budget for the financial year 2022-23 stands $27 billion plus.

    Also, he said that Pakistan is suffering from floods these days and unknown rains have caused havoc there.

    He was speaking as the chief guest at a simple but dignified function organized in his honor at the residence of Dr. Rao Kamran Ali, president of PAK-PAC and active leader, in Southlake City, Texas.

    The association of physicians of Pakistani descent of North America (APPNA), various socio-political personalities belonging to Dalles fort participated on this occasion. While Southlake City Mayor John Huffman, Texas Medical Board President Dr. Sharif Zafar were also present.

    The event, hosted by Dr. Rao Kamran Ali and his wife Selina Ali, was also significant because, for the first time in Dallas, Fort-Worth, Governor Greg Abbott, who belongs to the Republican Party, met Pakistani Americans and answered their direct questions in detail. Answered.

    Texas Governor Greg Abbott said that the state of Texas is the state with the strongest economy in the United States, and the job opportunities are the highest among all other states. He said the Texas budget this year is $27 billion plus.

    We are rich in natural resources, which is why people from all over the United States are moving to Texas. Texas has the highest number of job opportunities mainly due to large national level companies moving to Texas.

    He said that more than fifty percent of the state’s tax is being spent on health and education sector, while the benefit of the surplus budget will be given directly to the tax payers in the form of a significant reduction in property tax.

    On this occasion, Texas Governor Greg Abbott also gave detailed answers to the questions of the audience. To a question, he said that in the last three joint sessions, it has been revealed that the State of Texas has spent 25 billion dollars on children’s mental health and this money has been provided to the relevant institutions under the health care program, which he believes, is still insufficient and needs further planning.

    More than 1,700 drug overdose deaths occurred in Texas last year, most of them between the ages of 18 and 45. We need to accept the facts and plan effectively on this important issue, he said.

    On another question, the governor of Texas said that there is no shortfall of energy in the state of Texas. In any place, if the power supply is suspended for a certain period of time, it may be due to bad weather.

    Texas has 3,000 megawatts of electricity stored all the time, while electricity production has been increased by 15pc during the last one year.

    To a question, Greg Abbott said that we all have a fundamental responsibility to exercise our right to vote.

    This time we have done comprehensive planning for the presidential election, we have data of 17 million voters and we know that they need to be mobilized using better resources and those who do not exercise their right to vote must be encouraged to vote.

    He said that the impression that other states have turned to Texas are not my supporters but anti-voters. He claimed that the majority of people who are moving here from New York, California and other states are my voters because they have moved here after seeing our government policy and the growth of Texas.

    He said that there is less than two months left for early voting and the purpose of my coming here today is to inform you about my performance and other important facts.

    This election is very important; the results will answer all your questions and will be important for the future of Texas for the next 20 to 25 years. So for the next 60 days, we will communicate directly with voters and tell them that we have done an extraordinary job for the growth and prosperity of Texas.

    If you want to see Texas more developed, a Republican government may be the best choice.

    Earlier, the host of the program, Dr. Rao Kamran Ali informed the audience about the aims and objectives of the event and gave a detailed briefing about the political and social services of Governor Texas.

    In his closing remarks, Rao Kamran Ali said that the perception that all Pakistani Americans are Democrat voters is completely wrong. Today’s event is proof of that.

    “We think this state is the best, and it’s all thanks to Governor Greg Abbott, obviously,” he said.

    Due to their efforts, this state has got the present achievements. He said that the Pakistani community living here will definitely support Governor Texas and his party in the upcoming elections.

    There is a need to take effective measures to end the lack of communication.

    He also thanked all the attendees including Governor Greg Abbott on this occasion

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Pak-American community organizations come together to help flood-hit Pakistanis

    New York: Various organizations of the Pakistani American community gathered at one platform to help the flood victims in Pakistan, in New York.

    The Pakistani community has appealed to the American government and citizens to support Pakistan in this difficult time.

    Yvette Clark, a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York’s Congressional District 9, and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso gathered various organizations of the Pakistani American community at the Brooklyn Borough Hall for the rehabilitation of the victims of the recent flood disasters in Pakistan.

    They assured them that our sympathies are with the people of Pakistan in this difficult time, we will help the flood victims in all possible ways.

    New York City Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams and Deputy Public Advocate Kashif Hussain also participated in the press conference.

    They said that at this time the whole world is facing the challenges of climate change and its effects have affected Pakistan a lot.

    It is not easy to restore the victims in the disaster that the flood has caused.

    On this occasion, New York Police Muslim Officers Society President Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana, Pakistani American Law Enforcement Society President Rohail Khalid and COPO President Muhammad Rizvi appealed to the entire American community that the flood victims have a lot of hope from us.

    Everyone should help the victims of this calamity.

    Heads of women’s representative organizations also participated in the press conference.

    CEO of APNA Community Center Erum Hanif, Head of American Council of Minority Women Bazah Roohi and Chairperson of Pakistani American Skilled Women Atiya Shahnaz said that all elected American members should raise their voice for the flood victims.

    Global industry should also go ahead and play its role.

    Deputy Consul General Nawab Adil Khan, New York Mayor’s Advisor Ahsan Chughtai and representatives of many other organizations of the Pakistani American community also participated in the press conference.

  • APPAC urges US President and Congress to approve a $13 billion aid package for the flood-hit Pakistan

    New York: The American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC), a Pakistani political group has written a letter to the US president Joe Biden seeking his administration’s help for the flood victims of Pakistan.

    APPAC has urged the Biden administration and Congress to approve a $13 billion aid package to help and restore victims of the devastating floods in Pakistan.

    APPEC Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmed said that Pakistan is currently facing the most difficult time. One-third of the country is under flood and the saddest part is that this year’s floods are a harbinger of worst weather disasters.

    The American community of Pakistani origin urged the United States to help the people of Pakistan on the basis of humanitarianism in this difficult time.

    In a letter written to US President Joe Biden and elected members of Congress, APPAC said that in this difficult time US must extend an important and immediate relief to the people of Pakistan in time.

    APPAC urged the United States to work with Pakistan to deal with the persistent threats posed by climate change.

    US have pledged only $30 million in aid, but the disaster scenario far outweighs the funding offered.

    According to the estimate of the American think tank Atlantic Council, Pakistan has lost $ 5.2 billion due to floods and will need $ 7.9 billion to restore it.

    Meanwhile, The APPAC chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmed has left for Pakistan from New York. He will be part of the US Congressional delegation in Islamabad tomorrow and will also attend meetings with senior Pakistani officials.

     

    A delegation led by Democratic Party Congressman Tom Souzzi and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson from New York is visiting Pakistan.

    They have specially asked Dr. Ijaz Ahmed to join him in this visit.

    The purpose of the visit of the members of Congress is to review the US aid and role in helping the flood victims, including the flood situation in Pakistan after the disasters.

    This delegation will meet the Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, President Dr. Arif Alvi, Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and National Disaster Management Authority

    Chairman Lt. Gen. Akhtar Nawaz and others in Islamabad tomorrow.

    APPAC Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmed, Tahir Javed, Tahir Bhatti, Tanveer Ahmed and Rehan Siddiqui will also be included in the delegation of American members of Congress.

    In one of his statements, Dr. Ijaz said that this visit is very important. He said “we will talk for maximum help to the flood victims in Pakistan from the US side in this visit.”

    The entire Pakistani community is grateful to the Congress members, he concluded.

  • 165 Pakistani peacekeepers rendered sacrifices in UN peacekeeping missions

    ALI ABBAS

    New York: Permanent Representative of Pakistan in UN Munir Akram said that Pakistan has so far contributed over 200,000 troops and police in 46 peacekeeping missions, and as many as 165 Pakistani peacekeepers paid the ultimate sacrifice in the great cause.

    Addressing at the UNCOPS 2022, titled “Addressing key challenges facing United Nations peacekeeping through Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) and A4P+” Munir said.

    Peacekeeping is one of the cornerstones of the United Nations and an essential tool for creating lasting peace in war-torn societies. Pakistan proudly contributed over 200,000 troops and police in 46 peacekeeping missions, and 165 Pakistani peacekeepers paid the ultimate sacrifice.

    Pakistani Policepersons have earned respect for their professionalism and devotion to duty under the UN Police banner. Pakistani Policewomen, Shahzadi Gulfam, was the first-ever recipient of the International Female Police Peacekeeper Award in 2011.

    On behalf of Pakistan, Munir presented a set of proposals for the UN Police peacekeeping challenges:

    The work of the United Nations Police is protecting people, preventing conflicts, and sustaining peace. This could only be achieved by the reforms and by developing the institutional capacity of the host state. UNPOL needs to be managed and resourced effectively to address security threats affecting global security involving organized crime, human trafficking, terrorism, and financial fraud.

    He said closer coordination between the UN Police, the host government’s law enforcement machinery and the civilian population is essential to improve the efficiency of policing in the context of a mission.

    While a rapid deployment of Formed Police Units instead of troops may be needed in certain contexts, such deployment should be based on clear and achievable mandates supported by adequate resources.

    We should consider including police aspects in mediation and other dialogue processes, especially in situations where a lack of trust in the security sector is a root cause of grievance and conflict.

    The selection criteria should be upheld rigorously to ensure the competence of peacekeeping police. The provision of better technology is mandatory for efficient PKOs. The early warning system should be enhanced, and peacekeepers are armed with proper equipment.

    Peacekeeping is a shared responsibility. A spirit of mutual and respective responsibility is at the core of A4P, and nowhere is this more important than pursuing durable solutions to conflict and instability. The Security Council has been unable to develop political solutions to several old and new disputes, including the one where one of the oldest UN Missions, the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan, is stationed.

    Pakistan has pledged an FPU and remains committed to further improving the performance of our police serving as individuals or part of formed units.

    Pakistan steadfastly supports advancing the role and effectiveness of the UN Police to address the emerging challenges.

  • Out of 33 million Pakistanis affected by floods, 8.2 million are women of reproductive age: Munir Akram

    BY ALI ABBAS

    NEW YORK: Permanent Representative of Pakistan in UN, Ambassador Munir Akram has said that climate change has had a severe impact on the lives of all Pakistanis as around 33 million people got affected by the ruthless floods that struck Pakistan with the government has estimated $10 billion in losses as of now.

    Addressing the 2nd regular session of the Executive Board of UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS at the adoption of Pakistan’s UNFPA Country Programme Document (2023-2027), Munir said that the recent floods in Pakistan are another manifestation of Pakistan’s high-priced proneness to natural disasters caused by climate change.

    Of the 33 million people affected across the country, he said an estimated 8.2 million are women of reproductive age. According to one estimate, Munir said almost 650,000 pregnant women in the flood-affected areas require maternal health services to ensure a safe pregnancy and childbirth.

    Up to 73,000 women expected to deliver next month will need skilled birth attendants, newborn care, and support.

    We need to scale up the emergency response to provide life-saving reproductive health services and commodities to the affected population.

    We hope UNFPA will work with us to mitigate the impacts of climate change, both now and in the longer term, especially on the young female population.

    He said Pakistan appreciates the long-standing partnership and collaboration with UNFPA since the 1970s.

    Highlighting the key features of Pakistan, he said the country has one of the world’s youngest populations. Almost 40% of the country’s population is under the age of 15. Among the female population, more than 48 million are in the reproductive age group. We are most conscious that our development policies, programmes and interventions must focus on equipping our population in an environment where every young person’s potential is fulfilled.

    Like other developing countries, Pakistan confronts structural and systemic challenges in providing the basic needs for development, including for our young people. The Covid-19 pandemic, spiraling prices of food and energy and security challenges, have severely constrained our ability to respond to the goals of ensuring the nutritional, health, and hygienic needs of the population, particularly of the most disadvantaged among them.

    We take note with appreciation of Pakistan’s draft Country Programme for the period 2023 to 2027. During the process of formulating the programme, UNFPA has conducted extensive consultations, and has taken into consideration the priorities and concerns of all stakeholders at the national level. I am certain that such collaboration between Pakistan and UNFPA will be further strengthened at all levels.

    He said close and continuous coordination between the Government and UNFPA will be indispensable for the successful implementation of Country Programme Document 2023-27, and to ensure the continuity of critical services and investments in the areas of maternal health, reproductive services and family planning in line with national laws and priorities.

    Pakistan observes that out of the total US$ 59 million allocated for the Country Programme, only US$ 23 million is allocated through Regular Resources and  US$ 36 million is to be secured from co-financing and other resources. This indicates that around 60% of the financial resources would be met from extra-budgetary resources. We hope UNFPA will be able to secure the required funding from partners and donors to ensure the full implementation of the identified programme priorities.

    A shared aim of the Government and UNFPA is to ensure that health governance systems embrace maternal health as a fundamental element. To achieve this, it will be necessary to improve availability of     high-quality reproductive health services, especially through sustainable and equitable financing for the most underserved communities.

    Munir said that the role of nurses, midwives and lady health workers is critical in increasing the proportion of facility-based deliveries, and reduction of prolonged labour and childbirth complications. Therefore, it is critical to train and maintain midwifery cadres according to the global standards for midwifery education.

    He added that prioritizing youth empowerment in policies will remain a cornerstone in addressing long-term challenges to sustainable development. For this, there is a need to scale up policy implementation and increase investments in the populations of adolescents and youth, particularly in healthy, education and skills development.

    Munir was of the view that cultural particularities and sensitivities along with national priorities are taken well into consideration in implementation of the Programme Outcomes.

    Ends

  • Flood-hit Pakistan in dire need of humanitarian aid from the world

    By ALI ABBAS

    New York: As ruthless floods have racked havoc in Pakistan, the United Nations (UN) has come forward with announcing a $160 million emergency plan to help the South Asian nation deal with devastating flooding.

    The currently resource-strapped nuclear Islamic country, which has been struggling on financial fronts to meet its day-to-day affairs, and tirelessly pursuing the revival of stalled IMF extended fund facility, is now in dire need of humanitarian aid as its all four provinces- Sindh, Baluchistan, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, besides the picturesque Gilgit-Baltistan have turned into canals.

    The civic and commercial life has come to stand still, road links have been disconnected to parts of the country, while the flood-hit citizens are seeking help from the government of Pakistan and the world community.

    As per the UN estimates, around 33  million people have so far been affected by the worst flooding in Pakistan – a country of more than 200 million inhabitants, and around 1000 people mostly children have died since June mid, this year.

    The floods have also destroyed millions of acres of agricultural lands, standing crops, and fruit trees worth hundreds of billions of rupees while the government has no capacity to cope with the grim situation.

    As many as 72 districts across Pakistan have so far been declared “calamity-hit” by the government. Amid ongoing rains, the number of calamity-declared districts is expected to increase.

    Various local charity organizations, philanthropists, well-offs, government agencies, and corporate sector firms have also been making efforts to contribute their part by donating cash, rashan to heal the sufferings of the vulnerable populations across the country.

    UN Secretary General António Guterres took to twitter as saying: “The Pakistani people are facing a monsoon on steroids. More than 1000 people have been killed – with millions more lives shattered. This colossal crisis requires urgent, collective action to help the Government & people of Pakistan in their hour of need.”

    Global Climate Risk Index 2021 and Climate Watch report suggests that Pakistan is among the 10 countries most affected by extreme weather events, despite its very low carbon footprint.

    Remember that Pakistan is one of the 10 highly affected countries due to climate change despite the country has a very minimal carbon footprint. Various environment experts and global leaders are of the view that every citizen of the globe should feel his responsibility towards minimizing the risks of climate change in future to ensure a better and secured world where humanity can exist in peace and prosperity.

    The Prime Minister of Fiji Frank Bainimarama said in his twitter message: “ Let’s be clear: the Pakistani people did not do this to Pakistan –– we all did, and the high-emitting nations are most responsible. Unless we end our species’ addiction to fossil fuels, every country in the world will remain in the crosshairs of the climate breakdown. Ends……

  • New York to restrict gun carrying in light of SC ruling

    New York: New York City authorities are posting new signs declaring the iconic Times Square a “Gun Free Zone.”

    This comes ahead of a new state law that takes effect on Thursday, which declares several places off limits for guns.

    Parks, churches, and theaters have also been deemed “sensitive” places, according to 1010wcsi.com.

    As per Wthr.com, amid the bright lights and electronic billboards across New York’s Times Square, city authorities are posting new signs proclaiming the bustling crossroads a “Gun Free Zone.” the sprawling Manhattan tourist attraction is one of the scores of “sensitive” places — including parks, churches, and theaters — that will be off limits for guns under a sweeping new state law going into effect Thursday.

    The measure, passed after a U.S. Supreme Court decision in June expanded gun rights, also sets stringent standards for issuing concealed carry permits.

    The new gun-control law will also increase training requirements and require disclosure of social media accounts for new gun applicants.

    If all goes as planned, the new restrictions will impact nearly every gun owner and anyone with an interest in guns in society.

    According to ABC-7 New York, governor Hochul and Mayor Adams will address public safety on Wednesday ahead of the new gun laws going into effect in New York state.

    That new concealed carry law bans guns in a variety of sensitive places and that will soon include Times Square. The boundaries will extend from Sixth Avenue to Eighth Avenue and from West 40th Street to West 53rd Street.

    “For Times Square specifically, the law requires signage in the designated zone, it is clear and conspicuous,” Robert Barrows, Executive Director, NYPD Legal Operations and Projects was quoted by ABC-7 New York as saying. “I do have a copy of the signage, what that will look like, the signage will be placed at every entry point in the zone, there will be two signs on each side. This will be temporary, more permanent signage will be installed, if as expected, this bill becomes law, that is another opportunity I think to educate our officers as well because precinct personnel and Manhattan south personnel will start installing these signs by September 1.”

    According to PIX 11, The Supreme Court ruling overturning New York City’s ban on concealed carry guns means anyone with a permit can pack a pistol — but not in Times Square where it’s a felony offense. It’s got some city council members concerned.  “It’s no bigger than 8×11. It should be bigger than that,” a council member said. “It means they need to know the rules the laws,” another said.

    With 400,000 people passing through the crossroads of Times Square daily, nearing pre-pandemic numbers, combined with the scourge of rising gun violence, lawmakers are scrambling to find workarounds to the Supreme Court’s loosening of gun laws.

  • ICNA Relief opens men’s shelter home for those released from prisons.

    Washington: Islamic Circle of North America known as ICNA Relief – the largest Muslim charity organization in America has opened the first men’s shelter home in Seattle, Washington to accommodate those released from jail.

    Remember that ICNA Relief has already established thirty-six shelters for Muslim women in the United States where Muslim women can live without compromising their religious beliefs.

    In a simple and dignified ceremony held in Washington, Seattle’s social and religious personalities, including the Muslim-American immigrant Deputy Mayor of Bothell City, Rami Al-Kabra, and the CEO of ICNA Relief, Maqsood Ahmed, specially participated.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, Program Manager Mosa said that America has the highest number of prisoners in the world.

    While there are 20,000 prisoners in Seattle, when they come out after being released, neither the system helps them nor society accepts them.

    People of other religions will also be given shelter in this shelter home.

    ICNA Relief CEO Maqsood Ahmed and Deputy Mayor Rami Al-Kibra said that through this program we can help those people who go to jail due to a mistake or an uncommitted sin, and they want to improve their lives after being released. But the system does not help them, people who want to change themselves after committing some mistakes or sins, this will be the best opportunity for them.

    Faheem Ahmed, President of Islamic Circle of North America Seattle said, “I thank the organizers of ICNA Relief who started this wonderful program.”

    He said that this idea was in our mind for many years that we will start it. “We thank Allah that we got a person like Musa who understands this system well,”

    Fareed Salman, Area Manager of ICNA Relief Seattle and Umber Haque, Director of Muslim Family Services, said that through this program, people suffering from mental disorder will be given full counseling so that they can return to the social mainstream.

    Starting in Seattle, the program will be a beacon for the Muslim community across the United States

    This shelter home established under the auspices of ICNA Relief is an example of its own, where the best rooms for living, magnificent bathrooms, beautiful drawing rooms for sitting, computer rooms and places for praying are also available.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Saleem Mandviwala calls for more dams to avoid flood devastations in future.

    Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) senior leader Senator Saleem Mandviwala has said that the country is facing the worst floods and related socio-economic destructions in its 75-year-history and stressed that the construction of new dams is inevitable to save Pakistan from destruction in years to come, amid global climate change affects.

    He was addressing a fundraising and prayer event organized in New York for the flood victims.
    The PPP USA organized the event for the flood-affected displaced brothers and sisters of Pakistan at a local restaurant located on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn, New York.

     Saleem Mandviwala graced the event with his presence as the special guest.
    The leadership of the People’s Party of America welcomed him and presented him with a bouquet.

    The event started with recitation of Fatiha for the martyrs.The participants of the event collectively recited Fatiha for the forgiveness of those who died in the flood, elevation of ranks and reward.

    In his address to the participants, Saleem Mandviwala said that the whole world is currently facing the effects of climate change, but the flood in Pakistan at this time is not only a result of climate change, but the country suffered flood devastations mainly due to non-availability of dams as per requirement.

    Business and social personalities of the Pakistani American community including famous actress Meera also participated and spoke to the the prayer ceremony.

    On this occasion, PPP America chapter president Khalid Awan and General Secretary Sameen Asad said that millions of our mothers, sisters and brothers are in great trouble, and urged the Pakistani Diaspora especially those living in US to play their part in this testing time by supporting the flood-hit fellow citizens at home.

    On this occasion, the attendees also expressed their views and said that they are living outside Pakistan but their hearts beat with Pakistan.

    They vowed that they will not leave their siblings alone in this difficult time.

    Other members of the PPP also pledged to help the flood victims.
    They were also of the view that construction of dams was politicized in Pakistan, if we want to save the country from such a disaster in the future, we have to construct small and big dams, immediately.

    Only the government alone cannot cope with this difficult time, every Pakistani should continue to help the flood victims in their own way until the recovery of the flood victims, they said.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • A man accused of setting a rental property on fire and killing three men in Houston, was later gunned down by police

    Houston: Houston Police Chief Troy Finner informed that among the four killed was the suspect,
    Suspect killed by police after intentionally setting fire to rental property

    Addressing a press conference, the police chief said that at least four people were killed and two others sustained injuries on Sunday after a man set fire to a building and then shot at people fleeing in Houston.
    The suspect was later killed by a Houston police officer.
    CNN reported quoting the Houston Police Chief Troy Finner that just after 1 a.m., the city’s police and fire departments received calls about a fire and shooting at a house used as a rental facility, Finner said at a news conference.

    Multiple agencies, including the Houston Police Department and the Houston Fire Department, responded to multiple reports at a home that was used as a multi-rental property at the 8000 block of Dunlap Street near Bissonnet Street at around 1 a.m, Chief Troy Finner said in a news conference.
    Firefighters arrived first but had to take cover when the gunman opened fire, although it was not clear if he was firing at them.

    Soon after that, police officers got to the scene and found the shooter in a parking lot across the street from the house. An officer shot and killed

    According to Mr Finner, victims were all men, and range in age from 40 to 60.
    “This suspect, unfortunately, and very sadly, and very evilly, set fire to several residents,” Mr Finner said during the press conference as quoted by CNN.
    Last week, one person was killed and six others sustained injuries in an apparent targeted shooting in the US state of Maryland.

  • NYC faces drought conditions: US drought Monitor

    New York: The federal government’s drought monitor said that New York City is facing drought conditions as NYC has had just 25-50 percent of normal rainfall over the past 30 days.

    Some corners of nearby New Jersey, Long Island, Connecticut, and the Hudson Valley have had less than 25 percent.

    According to the Independent, Staten Island, southern Brooklyn, parts of New Jersey, and the south shore of Long Island are in “severe” drought conditions, The city’s other boroughs along with Long Island, New Jersey, and parts of some upstate New York counties are in “moderate drought”,

    Yesterday, the National Weather Service (NWS) also warned that drought conditions can increase the risk of wildfires and dry out crops.

    However earlier this month, The New York Times reported that drought is somewhat less of an issue in New York City than in decades past as conservation efforts have lowered the city’s water needs.

    In 2021, New Yorkers used about 115 gallons per person, per day, according to the city’s Department of Environmental Protection. In 1979, residents of the five boroughs used about 213 gallons per person, per day.

    There’s not too much agriculture in the city proper. But in nearby New Jersey, crops like soybeans, corn and apples are smaller than usual, reports NBC4 News.

    Rockland County, north of the city, and parts of Suffolk County, on Long Island, have also declared “water emergencies”, limiting use as a result of the drought.

    NBC Boston reports that some areas in the northeast have even seen some small wildfires. This month, a 12-acre fire burned in Harriman State Park, about 36 miles (58 kilometres) north of New York City. Massachusetts has seen more than 100 wildfires in August,

  • APPAC hosts dinner in honor of Sabrina Zafar, a mayoral candidate from San Ramon, California.

    New York: American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) hosted a dinner in honor of Sabrina Zafar, a mayoral candidate from San Ramon, California.

    APPAC New York Chapter President Adnan Bukhari, Director Asad Chaudhary and other community members attended the dinner at a local restaurant in Queens, New York.

    APPAC Director Asad Chaudhary introduced Sabina and said that we are very happy to have Sabrina the mayoral candidate from San Ramon, California has come to New York.

    Her personality is admirable, he said.

    APPAC New York Chapter President Adnan Bukhari said that it is very important for the Pakistani community to participate in American politics and now people are becoming aware of it.

    Sabrina Zafar said that it is important for our new generation to be a part of American politics.

    Other people who participated in the event praised the role of APPAC and said that the American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee, is doing the best work for the American politics towards the Pakistani and Muslim community.

    The participants of the dinner wished Sabrina Zafar success and thanked her for her advice.

     

     

  • Moin Khan to visit US next month to participate in the Dave Cameron Cricket Tournament

    New York: The former captain of Pakistan’s national cricket team, Moin Khan will pay visit to US next month to participate in the Dave Cameron Cricket Tournament at the invitation of the North American Cricket Authority (NACA).

    The North American Cricket Authority has announced to hold the Dave Cameron Cricket Tournament on the completion of 60 years of Jamaica’s independence from the British rule, which will start from September 3 next month.

    T-10 and T-20 matches will be played between the participating teams in the tournament, while the winning teams will be awarded with prize money of 200,000 dollars.

    NAKA has especially invited the former captain of Pakistan’s national cricket team and famous wicketkeeper Moin Khan to America.

    In a video message, Moin Khan thanked NAKA and Dave Cameron and appealed to the cricket fans to participate in this tournament in full.

    Earlier in May this year, the Cricket Hall of Fame Award was announced for Moin Khan, who will be presented with the award at a ceremony to be held at Bradley on October 1.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York, Florida and Oklahoma holding primary polls today

    New York: Florida and New York – the two of the country’s largest states besides Oklahoma are holding their primary elections on Tuesday to choose their nominees for November’s elections.

    Polling began in New York at 6 am. Polls close at 7 p.m. in Florida, 8 p.m. in Oklahoma, and 9 p.m. in New York (all times Eastern).

    According to CNN, in Florida’s heated race for governor, two Democrats with different profiles — Rep. Charlie Crist and Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried — are facing off for the chance to challenge incumbent Republican Ron DeSantis in November.

    After redistricting pushed the congressional primaries back, New York voters are casting ballots in several state Senate and US House races, as well as two special elections to fill vacant House seats.

    Longtime New York City Reps. Jerry Nadler and Carolyn Maloney are facing each other after the new congressional map placed the two in the same district.

    Oklahoma is holding several primary runoffs, including the GOP contest for the special Senate election to replace Sen. Jim Inhofe when he resigns next year.

    According to Washington Post, in New York, a major fight over redistricting led to delayed congressional primaries, with some marquee races featuring established Democrats facing off against one another. In Florida, Democrats will pick their nominees to take on Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) and Sen. Marco Rubio (R) in the fall. And Oklahoma is holding runoff primaries, including one that will set the field for November in a special election to complete the term of retiring Sen. James M. Inhofe (R).

    After a redistricting scramble, New York is holding the primary elections today for U.S. House seats, including a battle of longtime Democrats in the 12th District, in New York City.

    Just four states remain on the primary calendar — Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Delaware — with contests in September. Louisiana holds its hybrid primaries on Election Day, Nov. 8.

    Washington Post has also highlighted some basic things a voter must to know about the today’s elections.

    In New York’s 12th District, two powerful Democratic committee chairs, Reps. Jerrold Nadler and Carolyn B. Maloney, are facing off against one another.

    In New York’s 10th District, a dozen candidates in the Democratic primary are vying for an open seat. They include former House impeachment manager Daniel Goldman and Rep. Mondaire Jones, who moved from another district as part of the redistricting scramble.

    In New York’s 23rd District, there is a competitive Republican primary pitting Carl Paladino, a former GOP gubernatorial candidate known for controversial comments, against Nick Langworthy, the state Republican Party chairman.

    In Florida, the Democratic gubernatorial primary pits former GOP governor Charlie Crist against a more liberal candidate, Nikki Fried.

    In Florida, Rep. Val Demings (D), a former Orlando police chief, is the front-runner in the Democratic field to take on Rubio in November.

  • Mega Pakistan Day Parade held in New Jersey

    New Jersey: In connection with the 75th Independence celebration of Pakistan, the biggest Pakistan Day Parade was held in New Jersey U.S this year as well, with the national zest and fervour.

    The Colours of Pakistan’s history and culture were prominent in the mega event.

    The grand parade began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the Naat Khwani.

    A press conference was also held, and a rally was also organized in which participants on motorcycles and vehicles attended in great numbers, while floats were also the centre of attention on this occasion.

    In the parade, the youths dressed as Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Ms. Fatima Jinnah were also the centre of attention.

    While the parade committee members Sam Khan, Dr Zubair, Mateen Abbas, Salman Malik and Kamran Khan played an active role in the success of the event that was attended by thousands of participants. They took pictures with the artists who performed dance dressed in traditional attire.

    Various traditional items and food stalls were also part of the parade, where ladies and gentlemen shopped enthusiastically.

    American officials also participated in the Pakistan Day Parade in New Jersey. They not only congratulated the Pakistanis but also appreciated the patriotism of the Pakistanis.

    The women members of the parade committee also cut the Independence Day cake.

     

    Prominent social activist Sam Khan said that young generation of the Pakistani community should become a practical part of the administrative affairs of the United States.

    Naeem Abbas Rufi mingled with the event participants and sang the song Ae Watan Pak Watan, and other songs.

    Dressed in Pakistani clothes and holding the national flags of both Pakistan and America in their hands, a large number of people including women and children participated in the Pakistan Day Parade in New Jersey.

    The attendees kept chanting slogans in favour of Pakistan and Pakistan’s Independence Day all the time.

  • Pakistani community must take active part in American politics: Tahir Javed

    NEW YORK: Khawar Baig, a businessman and social figure of the Pakistani American community in New York, hosted a grand dinner reception at his residence in honor of Tahir Javed, Deputy National Finance Chair of the Democratic National Committee.

    Tahir Javed, a proud figure of the Pakistani community in America is visiting New York these days. He was invited for dinner by Khawar Baig at his residence.

    The ceremony started with the recitation of the Holy Quran.

    Prominent personalities of the Pakistani community also participated in the dinner.

    The host Khawar Baig introduced the chief guest Tahir Javed and the community to each other and welcomed them on their arrival.

    The participants discussed in detail the importance and participation of the Pakistani community in US national and local politics.

    On this occasion, Khawar Baig said our community is very active in business and social activities but does not participate effectively in politics. The community should follow Tahir Javed.

    On this occasion, Tahir Javed shared various experiences of his political journey with the community. He urged the community to participate in practical politics.

    Later, in a conversation with Voice of South Asia VOSA, he said that if we make ourselves strong in the local politics here, it will benefit Pakistan a lot at the global level.

    All the participants agreed to keep their affiliation with the political parties of Pakistan while living in the US, but to participate in local politics of US is important. They stressed upon the need to exercise their vote in elections, so that better representatives can be elected.

  • Pakistani community takes to Coney Island Avanue to mark the country’s 75th Independence

    New York: Pakistani community in New York held a mega rally on account of the 75th Independence Day of the country on Coney Island avenue Brooklyn known as the little Pakistan, which was attended by Pakistanis and others in great numbers.

    American male and female officials dressed in traditional Pakistani attire became the center of attention while the rally participants including women and children were holding Pakistani flags in their hands.

    People riding in many vehicles participated in the rally, and the jubilant youth were dancing over the background patriotic songs.

    Pakistani American Youth Society, Pakistani American Skilled Women Organization, Bronx’s entrepreneur Raja Sajid, and the float of the Kashmiri community anchored the rally.

    A function was also organized along with the rally. Deputy Public Advocate Kashif Hussain administrated the event. President of Pakistani American Law Enforcement Society Rohail Khalid recited a few verses of the Holy Quran.

    New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams,  and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso said that the beauty of the Pakistani community is that they include us in every festival they do.

    Deputy Public Advocate Kashif Hussain, Ali Rashid of American Pakistani Advocacy Group, New York Police Muslim Officers Society President Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana, spoke on the promotion of solidarity. He also shed light on the eternal story of freedom.

    The Pakistan Day Rally was not only an expression of love for Pakistan but also an opportunity for the community to come together once again.

  • US announces an additional $1 million as humanitarian aid for the flood-hit Pakistan.

    US: As the record-breaking monsoon rains have racked havoc in parts of Pakistan’s Baluchistan and Sindh provinces, the US has come forward and announced an additional $1 million in aid for flood victims in Pakistan.

    In a statement on the social networking site Twitter, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that he stands with Pakistan in difficult times.

    He said that they will continue to work together to reduce the future effects of the climate crisis. Before this, the United States has announced an aid of one hundred thousand dollars to Pakistan on August 16 to deal with natural disasters.