Cultural diplomacy: Pakistan House highlights the country’s diversity, heritage and women’s role  

Often portrayed in the U.S. media in the light of South Asian geostrategic competitions and controversies, Pakistan is stepping up efforts to project its soft power achievements through a series of events.

Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry and Mrs. Najia Ahmad hosted one such event at Pakistan House in Washington D.C. this week.  The invitees to the event entitled “Colors of Pakistan” included D.C.-based Women’s Foreign Policy Group that comprises spouses of several Congressmen and diplomats, prominent women leaders, and corporate executives.

Welcoming the guests, Mrs. Najia Ahmad highlighted Pakistan as a land of diversity with a rich cultural heritage. She spoke how women in Pakistan are playing a pivotal role by breaking societal barriers and contributing to development in an array of fields.  Mrs. Sarah Tariq Gilani made a presentation on the Emerging Women of Pakistan, citing examples of women making important contributions to socioeconomic development of the country.

By DFID – UK Department for International Development [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Ms. Maheen spoke on the topic “Women and Islam,” emphasizing the religion, as illustrated by the life of Holy Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) gave gives rights.

A documentary on “Emerging Faces: Exploring Pakistan’s Hidden Treasures.” made by Ms. Cynthia Ritchie, a US citizen and a filmmaker, was screened. Ms. Ritchie said Pakistan is a fascinating combination of culture and tradition bound by common values of hospitality, altruism and multiculturalrism, according to the embassy. 

Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry answered questions from participants, saying Islamabad is committed to safeguarding rights of women. He also touched on the country’s efforts for peace including the ongoing fight against terror.