The Forum for Dialogue and Diplomacy (FDD) convened its latest meeting in Houston on June 25, 2025, bringing together twelve active members to engage in a timely and in-depth discussion on key global and local issues affecting the Pakistani-American community and the broader geopolitical landscape.
The meeting’s agenda included a broad range of pressing topics such as the United States’ role in the recent four-day India-Pakistan conflict, the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and its strategic implications for Pakistan, and the civic participation of Pakistani-Americans in the U.S. electoral system at the federal, state, county, and city levels.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Asaf Qadeer emphasized the urgent need for sustainable peace and prosperity in South Asia and the Middle East. He called upon the Pakistani-American community to act as informed and proactive stakeholders in the global policy landscape.
A vibrant discussion followed, with participants exploring strategies to amplify the political voice of the Pakistani-American diaspora. The forum underscored the significance of youth involvement, mentorship, and leadership development. Members advocated for greater visibility of Pakistani-American organizations at civic events to lay a stronger socio-political foundation rooted in community engagement and cultural outreach.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Javaid Laghari stressed the importance of active community involvement across strategic, tactical, and operational levels. He noted that Pakistani-Americans possess substantial expertise across local, national, and international domains, and highlighted the transformative potential of unity and collective action.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to all attendees for their ongoing dedication and valuable contributions to the Forum’s mission of fostering dialogue, diplomacy, and civic empowerment.
