US Consul General William Martin on Friday said social media could be used for strengthening ties between two great countries- Pakistan and India. Inaugurating Pakistan-India Social Media Mela (SMM) 2012 organized by PeaceNiche in collaboration with US Consulate General Karachi and Lahore at local hotel here, he said the world needed an economically thriving and stable Pakistan just as much as an economically thriving and stable India.
Martin termed the SMM as a cornerstone of what they called citizen diplomacy as the event would focus on the most dynamic social and political activists on the entire subcontinent: Bloggers from India and Pakistan.
He said: "I have been heartened to see a strengthening of ties between business and ordinary people of two great countries. As the exchange of physical goods through trade has steadily increased, a corresponding increase in digital and virtual exchange is also happening."
Moreover, US Consul General said social media and blogging in both countries shared common opportunities and challenges besides internet penetration rates were roughly equal in both countries; most internet users tend to be young and urban, with tremendous room for growth rural areas. There are countless common interests that support social media bridges.
Therefore, the event is being supported by United States as stronger ties between Pakistan and India are absolutely essential for long-term peace and prosperity not just in both countries but in entire region.
He also lauded the efforts of social media practitioners for demonstrating sophisticated communication skills in speaking out against corruption, human rights violations and violent extremism.
The Pakistan-India SMM 2012 is nurturing dialogue and critical engagement with entrepreneurs, media persons, activists, writers, comedians, musicians and others. Besides encouraging social media practitioners to explore creative arts, contemplate the changing face of media and politics, marvel at pop culture, highlight activists' successes, gain insights on crowd-funding and demystify the business of social media.
A large number of local and foreign social media practitioners attended interactive SMM sessions.
Comments
Comments are closed.