Sheraly Khwaja, an old Republican, has said in his January 20th presidential inauguration address that President George Bush had announced agenda for his second term based on the upholding of the values of liberty, freedom, democracy and human rights. "History amply proves" that the Republicans "have always been supportive of Pakistan's concerns and interests."
In an interview with APP, Sheraly added on its part the Pakistani American community had been doing well, but it was time it came out of its "isolationist attitude," got involved with the "equality-based" American political system and reached out the mainstream society.
"We have equal rights in America, in fact, this is the beauty of the system that it practices ideals based on equality, and extends abundant opportunities. We must know how to exercise these rights for ourselves and for the betterment of our dependents, and care for the US society at large," he stated.
"It is high time for those of us who have adopted America as their homeland to participate in all activities, by becoming a part of the mainstream society, not only to benefit from opportunities it provides, but to give back to the community."
Sheraly Khwaja is a community worker, who is Commissioner on Traffic and Safety Commission, City of Montelbello California as well as Commissioner on education.
Quite many Americans of Pakistani heritage, he stated, had of late excelled in the professions they work for, and sought and received due acknowledgement for their hard work, capabilities and efficiency.
Element of strong family bonds, he said was also our plus point and our values of commitment were highly appreciated. He said the United States took pride in being a country of immigrants, and urged that "we must learn lesson from other successful communities."
Sheraly said after 9/11 the American society had a genuine concern for national security, which made it imperative to follow the laid down procedures at the levels of immigration on arrival and departures, and one must expect and undergo routine checks.
He had been delegate to Republican National Conventions (RNC) held at Houston Pennsylvania and New York. He assailed "the propaganda" that US Administration was against Muslims. In support of his contention, he referred to the remarks by Ambassador Robert Blackwell on November 10 last, on the occasion of celebration of 'Diwali' at the White House, six days after November 4 US presidential elections. He stated he was the only Muslim invited to the event.
"On the occasion, Ambassador Blackwell spoke eloquently in support of Pakistan and Muslims."
"He praised President Musharraf, describing him as good friend of the United States, and Pakistan being a close ally of America in the ongoing war against terrorism."
The former envoy to New Delhi said he was speaking on behalf of President Bush and added, while economy of India had grown fast, the US was determined to see that Pakistan's economy took strides. "He said the President has stated that he will develop economy of Pakistan and bring it' up," Sheraly stated.
"Ambassador Blackwell said Pakistan is a big "P" for us," he stated. "He expressed his opposition to the Indian plea for becoming permanent member of the U N Security Council, and stated there were Brazil, Germany and Japan, besides ten other countries in line who were interested to attain the status."
Sheraly Khwaja was critical of Pakistani-Americans who were supporting John Kerry in the November 4 elections, and alleged the Democrat candidate had committed to extend support to India in promotion of its interests.
On Kashmir, he stated Ambassador Blackwell said, "the President is committed to resolution of Kashmir issue."
"He quoted President Bush stating that Muslims are my brothers, and my administration believes in a two state solution, and will see that the rights of Palestinians are given to them; and that the situation in Middle East will change."
Sheraly said the Indian American figures, present on the occasion, were "not at all happy" with the "candid remarks" by the former U S ambassador to New Delhi.