Pakistani Americans Meet with Congressman Gary Peters

The Council on Pakistan Relations recently met with Congressman Gary Peters (D-MI) in Washington DC, to discuss U.S-Pakistan relations, CPR’s objectives for 2010, the importance of including the Pakistani American community in Washington’s decision making process and the need to ensure that U.S. foreign assistance to Pakistan is targeted and wisely spent.  As a Member of Congress from a district with a large Pakistani American presence, Congressman Peters (D-MI) plays a key role in representing the views of this important constituency group.

During the meeting with Congressman Peters (D-MI), the Council discussed the “trust deficit” that has existed between the countries for decades and has led to misunderstanding and mistrust.  The Council emphasized that $7.5 billion assistance per Kerry/Lugar legislation to Pakistan is a step in the right direction. However, it warned that the U.S. needs to spend this money wisely and should focus on large “signature” projects in the areas of energy, agriculture and heath that the Pakistani people will identify with America’s long-term commitment to the country.  Further more, the Council also stressed that Pakistan desperately needs favorable trade policy from US.

Congressman Peters (D-MI) agreed that Pakistani Americans have a vital role to play in informing U.S. foreign policy towards South Asia since they bring a different, and often times very informed, point of view. The Council and Congressman Peters (D-MI) committed to continue to work together on these and other issues important to the Pakistani American community.

The Council on Pakistan Relations is a pro-America, pro-Pakistan not-for-profit advocacy organization interested in strengthening ties and enhancing mutual understanding between the two nations.

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