Washington D.C: In a special ceremony held today, Congressman Al Green was awarded the prestigious Sitara-i-Khidmat by Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh. The award recognizes Congressman Green’s significant contributions to enhancing Pakistan-U.S. relations, his efforts in promoting a positive image of Pakistan in the U.S. Congress, and his role in combating Islamophobia.
According to Embassy of Pakistan – Washington D.C, the investiture ceremony was attended by notable figures including Congressman Randy Weber, Representative Henry Ceullar, former Congressman Nick Lampson, Texas State Representative Suleman Lalani, as well as diplomats and prominent members of the Pakistani American community from Texas and the DMV area.
Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, in his opening remarks, highlighted the importance of Congressman Green’s work. “Today we have gathered here to recognize an extraordinary individual whose contributions have significantly strengthened the friendship between Pakistan and United States,” he said. He praised Congressman Green for his dedication to promoting a positive image of Pakistan and deepening diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.
The Ambassador also recalled Congressman Green’s visit to Pakistan during the devastating floods in 2022, noting his efforts to garner support for Pakistan in the U.S. Congress. “Your call to the wealthier nations at that point in time to step in and step up, given Pakistan’s minimal contribution to the global emissions, demonstrated your genuine concern for justice and equity at the global level,” the Ambassador observed.
Expressing his gratitude, Congressman Al Green reflected on his motivations and the deep connections he feels with the people of Pakistan. “I went to Pakistan because there was a need in Pakistan. I went because the people of Pakistan, whom I consider a part of my family, were suffering,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties between the two nations, asserting, “No wedge between us. We cannot allow it. We have too much in common and our needs for each other are too great.”
In his remarks, Congressman Green expressed his hopes for continued strong people-to-people relationships and lasting cooperation between the two countries. In addition to humanitarian efforts, Ambassador Sheikh also commended Congressman Green for his role in combating terrorism and supporting significant legislative initiatives such as the Pakistan Enduring Assistance and Cooperation Enhancement Act of 2009.
Ambassador Sheikh concluded by affirming the long-standing relationship between Pakistan and the United States, which he said is built on shared values, mutual respect, and common ideals. He credited strong people-to-people connections as the foundation of this partnership, with Congressman Green playing a pivotal role in fostering this bond.