In a significant diplomatic move, the Deputy Speaker of New York State, Philp Ramos, and his delegation engaged in discussions with the Caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh, Justice (R ) Maqbool Baqar, to explore the possibilities of declaring Sindh and New York as Sister-States.
The meeting, held in Karachi, included key officials such as Minister of Health Dr Saad Niaz, Chief Secretary Dr Fakhre Alam, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, and Secretary Health Dr Mansoor Rajput. The American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) delegation, led by Chairman Dr Ijaz Ahmad, President Imtiaz Rahi, Vice President Dr Tariq Ibrahim, General Secretary Naeem Choudhry, and others, discussed potential areas of collaboration between the two regions.
Caretaker CM Justice Maqbool Baqar expressed his enthusiasm for the proposal, emphasizing that declaring Sindh and New York as sister states would facilitate the exchange of delegations and foster cooperation among professionals, including doctors and engineers. He considered it a positive step that would strengthen ties and promote mutual understanding.
Deputy Speaker Philp Ramos shared that the APPAC was contemplating the establishment of a scholarship program for Pakistani students to study in New York’s educational institutions and other institutions in the USA. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for Pakistani students and build bridges between the two regions.
Members of the APPAC delegation, Dr Ijaz, Dr Imtiaz, and Dr Tariq, expressed their commitment to exploring ways to train Pakistani doctors, nurses, and other technicians in America. This collaborative effort is envisioned to contribute to the progress of Pakistan, particularly in the healthcare sector.
In response to the discussions, the Caretaker Chief Minister directed Chief Secretary Dr Fakhre Alam to initiate the necessary paperwork for officially declaring New York State and Sindh Province as sister cities. This move signifies a proactive approach to fostering international partnerships and collaboration for the benefit of both regions.
