CPR MEETS WITH CONGRESSMAN ROBERT WHITTMAN

The Council on Pakistan Relations met last week with Congressman Robert Whittman (R-VA) to discuss U.S.-Pakistan relations and the importance of the U.S. taking a regional approach to South Asia that includes India.  CPR also discussed its priorities for 2010 and the importance of including the Pakistani American community in Washington’s decision making process. 

 During the meeting with Congressman Whittman, CPR Chairman Ashraf Qazi discussed the need for the U.S. to take a greater role in bringing India and Pakistan to the negotiating table.  Although the two countries have a long and difficult history together, the U.S. must work with them to address outstanding territorial border disputes, resolve the issue of Kashmir and develop a new strategic framework for South Asia to build confidence and cooperation between Islamabad, New Delhi and Kabul.  CPR stated that U.S. interests and our homeland security are inextricably linked to that part of the world “trust deficit” that has existed between the countries for decades and has led to misunderstanding, mistrust and suspicion. 

 Congressman Whittman and the Council also discussed the importance of Congress and the Obama Administration engaging with the Pakistani American community.  Congressman Whittman agreed that Pakistani Americans have a vital role to play in informing U.S. foreign policy towards South Asia since they bring a different point of view.  The Council and Congressman Whittman committed to continue to work together on these and other issues important to the Pakistani American community.