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Biden writes to Shehbaz
Dear Mr Prime Minister: The enduring partnership between our nations remains critical to ensuring the security of our people—and people around the world—and the United States will continue to stand with Pakistan to tackle the most pressing global and regional challenges of our time.” President Biden further writes “Together, we will continue to forge a strong partnership between our nations, and close bond between our people.”
Comment: In view of the foregoing development, it wouldn’t be inappropriate to conclude, US President Joe Biden’s letter addressed to Pakistan’s Premier Shehbaz Sharif is an outright rebuff for the detractors of Pakistan — detractors who are brazenly and consistently engaged in tarnishing the image of Pakistan in the comity of world nations. Some of such detractors are untiringly engaged in lobbying against Pakistan. They are hell bent on spoiling decades-old US-Pakistan relations.
The referenced communication of the US President should be an eye-opener for Pakistan’s disparagers within the country and abroad. Should one hope, they would now stand enlightened vis-à-vis the universal fact that relationship between countries are purely based on mutual respect, cooperation and common interests — and is above all personal prejudices and hatred.
It would, therefore, be in the interest of the detractors of Pakistan to stop disparaging Pakistan — stop burning their blood for something that is unattainable.
M FAZAL ELAHI
Islamabad
Danish schools
The students of Balochistan desperately need a school model akin to the Danish system, providing free education to help them become educated. Many areas in Balochistan still lack access to education, posing a significant problem. Establishing Danish schools would involve developing educational curricula, distributing scholarships, conducting examinations and generating funds from both private and government resources.
It’s crucial to ensure that even the poorest students have access to these schools, as education is essential for productive development. Providing education, particularly to impoverished children, is considered a noble cause and a service to God.
I humbly urge the Government of Pakistan to establish Danish schools in Balochistan to provide education to the poor and help eradicate illiteracy, as education is the most potent weapon against poverty. By offering free education to the underprivileged, we pave the way for a brighter future where educated individuals contribute to the progress of our country. Despite previous calls for action on this matter, no steps have been taken.
DANIYAL ANWAR
Kulahoo Tump
Easter
Easter is a Christian festival which celebrates the belief of the rejuvenation of Jesus Christ. Although a holiday of high religious significance in the Christian faith, numerous traditions associated with Easter date back to pre-Christian, heathen times.
The festival falls on 31 March this year and will be celebrated all across the globe. Maundy Thursday and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on Good Friday is a part of the Holy Week celebrations which ends on Easter Sunday.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
PHC’s Holi celebration
I am writing to express my appreciation for the wonderful Holi celebrations organized by the Pakistan Hindu Council (PHC) at Manora Beach Park. The event was a vibrant display of unity and joy, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate the arrival of spring. It was heart-warming to see the spirit of camaraderie as Hindu devotees and others joined in the festivities, spreading colours and laughter.
Events like these play a crucial role in promoting interfaith harmony and religious freedom for non-Muslim minorities in Pakistan. By creating spaces for cultural exchange and celebration, the PHC is fostering a sense of inclusivity and understanding among communities. Such initiatives are essential for building a more cohesive and tolerant society where everyone can live and celebrate their traditions freely.
I applaud the efforts of the PHC in organizing such a memorable event and hope to see more initiatives like this in the future. Let us continue to work towards a Pakistan where diversity is not just tolerated but celebrated.
FAHAD ZAHID
Lahore
