AUGUST 24, 2023 - WASHINGTON, D.C. — Taking a pivotal step in addressing the concerns of the Shia diaspora in the U.S. pertaining to the prevailing situation in Pakistan, esteemed leaders from the American Shia community recently convened with Pakistan's Ambassador, His Excellency Masood Khan.
The high-profile dialogue, hosted at the Pakistani Embassy, was graced by notable figures such as Mr. Ali Shah Bukhari, Secretary of Mohammadia Center; Sheikh Abdul Jalil Nawee, Resident Alim of Idara Jaferia; Mr. Azmat Husain, President of UMAA; Maulana Sayed Sulaiman Hasan, Resident Alim and Trustee of Al- Asr Masjid; Mr. Rahat Husain, Executive Director of Shia Muslim Foundation; Mr. Waseem Naqvi, Trustee of Imam Ali Center, and Mr. Adil Rizvi, Secretary of Idara Jaferia.
The core discussion centered around the deep concerns over sectarian challenges in Pakistan, notably the disproportionate impacts on the Shia community. Emphasis was placed on the potential implications of the 'Tauheen a Sahaba Bill and Law' and its possible misuse, drawing connections with the recent unfortunate events linked to blasphemy laws.
During the dialogue at the Pakistani Embassy, a pivotal moment was the hand delivery of a comprehensive letter from SMF to Ambassador Masood Khan formalizing the content of the meeting itself.
Commenting on the significance of the dialogue, Mr. Azmat Husain, President of UMAA, expressed, “Our community's deep-rooted connection to Pakistan drives our desire for its harmony and progress. We ardently hope our insights resonate and contribute towards a unified Pakistan.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Rahat Husain, Executive Director of Shia Muslim Foundation, stated, “Our intent is clear - to cultivate a dialogue that culminates in positive, tangible outcomes. We have immense respect and optimism for Pakistan's trajectory, and addressing these pivotal concerns is essential for that envisioned path.”
Ambassador Khan recognized and acknowledged the insights shared during the discussion, and thanked the attendees for presenting their concerns. The Ambassador vowed to continue dialogue and to present these concerns to top officials in Pakistan's government.
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