Sheila Jackson Lee: “Many of our allies and friends live in tough neighborhoods, and I am very glad that Pakistan lives in a neighborhood…”

“Many of our allies and friends live in tough neighborhoods, and I am very glad that Pakistan lives in a neighborhood with friends; that is India and Bangladesh, that at least they are engaged. They also live in the neighborhood of Afghanistan where the Taliban has risen again. Pakistan soldiers have fought against the Taliban. You don't turn your back on a nation where 650,000 Pakistani Americans are living here in the United States, they are contributing, they are patriots, and they serve in the United States military. We have been able to facilitate safe immigration and relocation of Afghans with Pakistan. Pakistan has provided humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, following our lead. Our bilateral ties are further strengthened by the presence of nearly 650,000 Pakistani Americans. Pakistan is a democratic state working against challenges. Yes, it is. Its parliament has just completed its third consecutive 5-year cycle without disruption. They are planning democratic elections. What we need to do is to ensure that Pakistan has access to migration and refugee assistance, economic support, international disaster assistance, global health, humanitarian assistance, and economic development. These are important taxpayer dollars that help Pakistan become even stronger as a democratic nation and an ally. For the issues my good friend has spoken about, diplomacy works these issues out. Mr.…”