Ambassador Masood Khan expresses his pride in the individuals who are devotedly contributing to the betterment of the community, acknowledging both sons and daughters.
At a remarkable event in New York City, the Pakistani Ambassador to the United States, Masood Khan, alongside Mayor Eric Adams, celebrated the dedication of the Pakistani American Law Enforcement Society (PALS). Over 600 officers of Pakistani descent were honored during the inaugural ‘Pakistan Heritage and Resolution Month’ organized by the New York City Police Department (NYPD). In his address, Ambassador Khan praised the achievements of Pakistani-Americans, emphasizing their significant contributions to both nations and the strengthening of the Pakistan-U.S. relationship.
During the “Pakistan Heritage and Resolution Month” celebration at NYPD headquarters, the Pakistani Ambassador highlighted the immense pride felt by Pakistan and the Pakistani community due to the dedication of over 600 Pakistani-descent police officers within the NYPD and approximately 1,000 officers across the United States.
The event, organized by the NYPD and the Pakistani American Law Enforcement Society, drew a large audience, including distinguished guests such as First Deputy Commissioner Tania O Kinsella, Chief of NYPD Jeffrey B Maddrey, United States District Judge of New Jersey Zahid Qureshi, and Consul General of Pakistan in New York Aamer Ahmed Atozai. Ambassador Khan graced the occasion as the chief guest, addressing an audience of over 600 attendees. This historic event marked the first time the NYPD headquarters hosted such a ceremony to honor the heritage of Pakistan and acknowledge the valuable contributions of Pakistani officers serving the department.
Mayor Eric Adams commemorated the event, stating, “Today’s gathering is a wonderful occasion to honor the services of Pakistani New Yorkers in law enforcement, who diligently work to maintain the safety of The Big Apple, while also fostering a deeper appreciation for Pakistani culture.” In his tribute, Adams acknowledged the dedication, commitment, and professionalism of the Pakistani officers serving within the NYPD. He pledged his ongoing support for the Pakistani community as they continue to excel in various fields.
Ambassador Khan expressed his gratitude to PALS President Rohail Khalid for organizing the event and applauded the organization for its efforts in strengthening the bond between Pakistani-American youth and law enforcement agencies in the United States. The Ambassador proudly acknowledged the contributions of Pakistani individuals serving their communities and promoting a sense of inclusivity, diversity, and mutual understanding between the two communities.
Ambassador Masood Khan emphasized the significance of celebrating “Pakistan’s Heritage and Resolution Month” on the eve of “Pakistan Day,” highlighting the strength and longevity of the Pak-US relationship. He acknowledged the one million-strong Pakistani-American community as the most enduring connection between the two nations.
Amidst enthusiastic applause, the Ambassador shared updates on ongoing efforts to establish a Sister City relationship between New York and Karachi, as well as Sister State relations between New York state and Punjab and Sindh province of Pakistan. These initiatives aim to elevate the existing ties between the two nations to new heights. First Deputy Commissioner Tania Kinsella, speaking on behalf of Commissioner Edward A Caban and the entire NYPD executive team, extended their best wishes and commended the Pakistani American Law Enforcement Society for their invaluable contributions.
Tania Kinsella, speaking on behalf of Commissioner Edward A Caban and the entire NYPD executive team, commended the outstanding work of the Pakistani American Law Enforcement Society. She acknowledged their efforts in outreach and humanitarian services, which extend beyond their roles and contribute to the strengthening of community bonds. Kinsella expressed her admiration for their positive impact on the city and the world, encouraging them to take pride in their accomplishments.
During the event, Tania Kinsella also paid tribute to the late Adeed Fayyaz, the martyred NYPD police officer of Pakistani descent, whose memory was honored in the hall. Chief of Department Jeffrey B Maddrey expressed his appreciation for the cooperation of the Pakistani diaspora in maintaining law and order and wished the community a happy and safe Ramadan.
US District Judge Zahid Qureshi highlighted the opportunities for Pakistani youth and professionals to thrive in the merit-based US society. Pakistan’s Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai emphasized that the historic event symbolized the enduring collaboration and friendship between the NYPD and Pakistan. He expressed the immense pride the Pakistani community takes in the contributions of PALS members to the progress and security of the United States of America.
Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai acknowledged the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of the Pakistani American Law Enforcement Society members, highlighting their exemplary efforts in upholding justice and safety values. These qualities, he said, showcase the strength and resilience of the community.
Ambassador Masood Khan praised the humanitarian work of PALS, particularly during the catastrophic floods in Pakistan. He noted that PALS had adopted four villages across Balochistan, Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and dispatched five containers of relief goods worth approximately US$1 million with the assistance of Helping Hand. The Ambassador also presented awards to various officers for their exceptional performance and extended his best wishes to the NYPD and the entire PALS team for their personal and professional endeavors.
