MQM Delegation Meets Richard Armitage of Think-Tank Armitage International

Communication & Media Cell, MQM USA; Washington; May 05, 2010: A high profile delegation of MQM comprising of the Deputy Convener of MQM, Member National Assembly of Pakistan, and Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Dr. Farooque Sattar, former Federal Minister and Patron-in-Chief of MQM North America Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, and Patron, MQM North America Ibad Rehman met with Richard Armitage in Washington DC the other day. Vice-Chairman of US Pakistani Business Council Mr. Adeel A. Shah also accompanied the MQM delegation. Richard Armitage is a veteran diplomat, head of one of the largest ‘Think-Tanks” in the world, Armitage International, and a former deputy secretary of state. Another former Deputy Secretary of State Ms. Kara Bue was also at the meeting. During this one hour long meeting, mutual topics of interest, global economic situation and especially Pakistan’s economics were discussed. Mr. Richard Armitage congratulated the MQM delegation on the success of the Punjab Convention. Mr. Armitage was also very impressed with MQM’s position on women rights, opposing NRO, abolition of feudal system, land reforms, industrialization, fundamentalism and, terrorism. He was also impressed with the dedication of MQM workers in spreading the philosophy of empowerment of common people. The head of the MQM delegation Dr. Farooque Sattar requested Mr. Armitage and his associates to use the influence of their organization in providing access to Pakistani manufacturers and products to American markets. He also asked Mr. Armitage to help understand US administration that the American aid is of only a short term benefit for the Pakistani nation, however, if America wants to help Pakistan in real sense, he must invest to help Pakistan strengthen its economic infra-structure and that is the only solution for a future robust economy of Pakistan. Both leaders had a consensus that the regional peace and stability is dependent upon better relationships and more trade and business opportunities between India and Pakistan. Wars and terrorism can be avoided once both nations have stronger ties and better understanding with each other. Dr. Sattar invited Mr. Armitage to visit MQM's offices in Pakistan and Mr. Armitage gladly accepted the same