Diplomacy is about strengthening bonds between people & building trust amongst nations: Sardar Masood Khan

WASHINGTON, March 09 (SABAH): “Trust is the key ingredient of diplomacy, and you have to build it, it’s not a given.,” said the Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States Sardar Muhammad Masood Khan. “We start with acquaintances then turn those acquaintances into friendships developing trust between two individuals, two communities, and two nations, and then we start transactions of all kinds whether economic transactions or political transactions,” said Masood Khan.

Sardar Masood Khan made these remarks while addressing a jampacked hall with a large number of women participants during an event held at the Embassy of Pakistan celebrating Pakistan’s cultural treasures and the stunning landscape featuring traditional apparel, delicious cuisine, and exquisite artwork.

“Peace, security, and prosperity are our shared responsibility,” Ambassador Masood Khan later posted on X (Twitter) while appreciating the role of THIS for Diplomats. “You are an international community in miniature representing different nations here in the United States and THIS for Diplomats turns these foreigners into a family so that you can connect and understand each other’s perspective in a better way,” he added.

Highlighting the huge potential for tourism in Pakistan, Ambassador Masood Khan invited participants to visit Pakistan and experience the timeless beauty of Pakistan’s ancient civilizations and natural wonders, from snow-capped peaks to pristine coastal areas, and enjoy the delicious Pakistani cuisine. “Pakistan has been home to many ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley Civilization and the Gandhara civilization, but we also have a very dynamic and resolute people who are friendly, hospitable, and welcoming. You must go to Pakistan to experience the hospitality of the people of Pakistan,” said the Ambassador.

Terming it the beginning of a relationship between the Embassy of Pakistan and THIS for Diplomats, Ambassador Masood Khan thanked all the participants for joining in the celebration of Pakistan’s rich culture and applauded the invaluable role of THIS for Diplomats in creating a global family of diplomats, fostering connections, and bringing people together to celebrate diverse cultures.

Speaking to the occasion, Ms. Peggy Letter, the President of THIS for Diplomats expressed profound gratitude to Ambassador Masood Khan for the invitation to the embassy, showcasing the vibrant culture of Pakistan, an experience that will be treasured by all. THIS for Diplomats also thanked Ambassador Masood Khan in a tweet on its official X (Twitter) handle. The Embassy of Pakistan welcomed esteemed guests including diplomats from different countries i.e. Spain, Germany, Malaysia; Switzerland, Iraq, France; Canada, Egypt Kyrgyzstan, Singapore, Hungary, Japan, Korea, Brunei, Uzbekistan, Chile, and Sri Lanka alongside distinguished dignitaries from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), European Union (EU), and World Bank to experience the rich cultural traditions and breathtaking landscapes of the country. The event was organized in collaboration with THIS for Diplomats, a non-profit organization that promotes international understanding and friendship through educational, informational, and cultural exchanges with members of the diplomatic community in Washington, D.C. Press and Culture Attaché, Zaigham Abbas briefed the audience about the abundant natural and historical riches of Pakistan with award-winning travel magazine Travel + Leisure declaring Pakistan as one of the top 50 destinations to visit in 2024.

In her remarks, Ms. Ifrah Tariq, First Secretary at the Embassy of Pakistan talked about women empowerment in Pakistan and the women leaders Pakistan has produced. These remarks were made at the eve of International Women’s Day. The event concluded with a visit of vibrant stalls by the dignitaries followed by flavors of Pakistani cuisine.