Washington, D.C. — In a ceremony marked by deep appreciation and mutual respect, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, presented Congressman Alexander N. Green with the distinguished Sitara-i-Khidmat award. The honor was bestowed upon Congressman Green in recognition of his outstanding efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the United States, his advocacy for the positive representation of Pakistan within the U.S. Congress, and his staunch support in the fight against Islamophobia.
The special investiture ceremony, held at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, was attended by several notable dignitaries, including Congressman Randy Weber, Representative Henry Cuellar, former Congressman Nick Lampson, Texas State Representative Suleman Lalani, diplomats, and prominent members of the Pakistani-American community from Texas and the DMV area.
In his remarks, Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh praised Congressman Green for his enduring commitment to fostering stronger ties between Pakistan and the United States. “Today, we are here to honor an exceptional individual whose relentless efforts have played a pivotal role in enhancing the friendship between our two great nations,” Ambassador Sheikh stated.
Highlighting Congressman Green’s efforts in promoting a positive image of Pakistan across various platforms, Ambassador Sheikh emphasized the Congressman’s key role in deepening diplomatic and economic relations. The Ambassador also recalled Congressman Green’s visit to Pakistan during the devastating floods of 2022, commending him for his solidarity with the Pakistani people during their time of crisis.
“Congressman Green not only visited Pakistan to express his support during a difficult period but returned to the U.S. Congress to advocate passionately for timely assistance. His appeal to wealthier nations to step up, recognizing Pakistan’s minimal contribution to global emissions, was a testament to his deep sense of justice and global equity,” Ambassador Sheikh remarked.
Expressing his profound gratitude for the recognition, Congressman Al Green shared his appreciation for President Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan and the vibrant Pakistani-American community in his district who advocated on his behalf. “I am deeply honored to be acknowledged for my work and service as a United States Representative from the Ninth Congressional District of Texas. The contributions of the Pakistani community have had a profoundly positive impact on the Houston community, and I am fully committed to supporting and advocating for them, as well as all communities, in any way I can,” Congressman Green stated.
Reflecting on his visit to Pakistan during the natural disasters of 2022, Congressman Green recalled witnessing the devastation firsthand. “I went to Pakistan because there was a need. I went because the people of Pakistan, whom I consider a part of my extended family, were suffering,” he explained. Upon returning to the United States, Green strongly advocated for increased humanitarian aid, including his vote in favor of H.R. 1886, the Pakistan Enduring Assistance and Cooperation Enhancement (PEACE) Act, to boost aid and support Pakistan’s long-term social and economic recovery.
Green also emphasized the importance of humanitarianism and trade as fundamental building blocks for global peace. “This award serves as a reminder that humanitarianism is a global tool in the effort to sculpt world peace,” he said, underscoring his belief that lasting relationships between nations must be built on shared values and the spirit of cooperation.
Ambassador Sheikh echoed these sentiments, lauding Congressman Green’s advocacy on key legislative initiatives, such as the PEACE Act, and his significant contributions toward combating terrorism in the region. The Ambassador underscored the long-standing partnership between Pakistan and the United States, a relationship built on shared values, mutual respect, and common ideals. For over seven decades, the two nations have collaborated on various fronts, including the promotion of peace, the advancement of economic development, and the tackling of global challenges such as terrorism and climate change.
“The strength of our partnership lies in the strong people-to-people connections, and Congressman Al Green has played a critical role in nurturing this bond,” Ambassador Sheikh concluded.
Congressman Green’s contributions have undoubtedly strengthened the ties between Pakistan and the United States, and his dedication to humanitarian causes and legislative progress exemplifies the spirit of cooperation between the two nations. His recognition with the Sitara-i-Khidmat Award serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to fostering peace, understanding, and collaboration on the global stage.
