WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s envoy to the United States, Masood Khan, has extended congratulation to Fozia Janjua, a Pakistani-American who was recently elected as mayor of a township of New Jersey, US to become the first Muslim and South Asian woman to hold that role.
In a press release, the US embassy in the US, said that in a virtual meeting with the newly elected Mayor, the Ambassador said, “Your success is a source of pride for Pakistan, and it is celebrated in both the United States and Pakistan.” Masood Khan said that Fozia Janjua is a bridge-builder between two countries.
Heartiest congratulations to Fozia Janjua @FozJanjua on her election as Mayor of Mount Laurel, New Jersey. We are proud of your elevation because you trace your descent to Pakistan and you are a bridge builder between Pakistan and the United States 🇵🇰 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/DWWaq5MVBu
— Masood Khan (@Masood__Khan) January 12, 2024
Describing her election as a great moment of pride, Janjua was cited as saying, “I take pride in my Pakistani roots and heritage and my success is a commitment to foster diversity and inclusivity between cultures.”
Janjua highlighted her passion for community service, also focusing on teaching prisoners and underprivileged kids before joining active politics in the US.
Pakistan-US
She said that in a divided world, she wanted to create a united community that promotes appreciation and understanding, contributing to the diverse tapestry of Mount Laurel’s community.
Masood Khan, while felicitating her, highlighted the increasing role of Pakistani-Americans in U.S. politics.
“Pakistani Americans are making a huge contribution to the social economic and political landscape of the US. There are currently ten Assembly members in different states who are making a difference to the Pakistan and US alike.
Ambassador Khan said that Janjua’s election signifies the increasing diversity in American political leadership and the increasing integration of different cultures into the fabric of American politics.
The Ambassador invited Janjua to visit Pakistan with businessmen and entrepreneurs from her constituency and link them up with counterparts in Pakistan.
Masood Khan discussed the possibility of establishing a sister city partnership between Chakwal and the town of Mount Laurel. Janjua said, having her roots in Chakwal, she would gladly champion these ties.
She voiced her deep admiration for Pakistani music, dramas, and food in fluent Urdu, the press release maintained. The new elected mayor also expressed her desire to visit Pakistan soon, with her children who looked forward to experiencing Pakistan’s rich culture.
