Pakistani-Americans seek peaceful co-existence.

“Power does not work, it only creates more violence so what needs to be done is diplomacy, good will and justice.” said Dr. Agha Saeed, founder of the Pakistan American National Alliance (PANA).

A press conference held today by PANA in Washington, D.C. addressed the need for economic, cultural, social and political aid from the Obama administration and the U.S. They indicated that the ultimate goal is to propose a partnership for peace, utilizing smart power (combination of hard and soft power) rather than coercive power, and to fight against international terrorism.

According to the document titled “Pakistani-American Initiative for Peace in South Asia” given to press conference attendees, the extremism of terrorist attacks continue to worsen after the events of 9/11. The fight against terrorism in Pakistan resulted in the deaths of more than 1200 military personnel not including numbers of innocent victims. The document also indicated specific reasons for India witnessing so many terrorist acts which was due to methods of understanding and dealing with terrorist groups.

The Pakistani-Americans expressed that Pakistan has supported the American agenda in favor of U.S. policy and they are hopeful that the U.S. will do the same in return. New Hampshire State Representative Saghir Tahir said that educating Americans is a good way to get their support. “The American people are the best, most caring, loving, sharing people and if you talk to them just like now 79% of Americans they oppose war and they realize that war is not a solution.” he said.

 

 Mr. Saghir Tahir: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

 

 Dr. Agha Saeed: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download